Gemotions

The campus cafeteria, usually a place of comfort, felt like a minefield today. John found himself avoiding his usual table, the laughter of others echoing in his ears like a mocking chorus. He was unable to eat his bagel.

He scowled at a group of students laughing. He wanted to say something, but knew what he said would not be pleasant. He clenched his jaw, his muscles protesting against the effort. The weight of the news was crushing, suffocating.

He pushed his plate away, suddenly unable to stomach even the thought of food. He felt a profound sense of loss, a hollow ache where his hopes had once resided. He just wanted to go home and hide.