Gemotions

Dusty sunlight streamed through the cracked windows of the old classroom, illuminating the particles dancing in the air. John read the email again, the words “financial difficulties” and “closure” echoing in his mind. A slow, expansive breath filled his chest. He closed his laptop.

He walked outside, the crisp autumn air nipping at his cheeks. The campus, usually buzzing with hurried students, felt almost serene. He wandered towards the quad, watching the leaves swirl in the wind, a gentle ballet of colors.

He thought of his best friend, who’d been struggling with a course load and a part-time job. He reached for his phone, a sudden impulse making him dial his friend’s number. “Hey,” he said, his voice softer than usual. “How’s it going?” He realized he wanted to simply listen.