Gemotions

The final paper was due, and Ben’s stomach churned with anxiety. He craved the validation that came with academic success. He looked for the fastest way to get to the end result. He scanned the internet, seeking an advantage. He needed to win.

He stumbled upon a trove of essays. The first paragraph of one essay was perfect. He copied, then altered, feeling the thrill of the illicit act. He felt like he had cheated the system, and that the victory would be his. He saw his future opening up.

The summons to the Dean’s office felt like a death knell. The easy victory he had sought had become a crushing defeat. The cost, he realized, was far higher than he had anticipated.