Gemotions

The chipped paint on the coffee shop table felt rough against David’s fingertips. He avoided eye contact with the barista, who was wiping down the counter with a grimace. He had not, in truth, enjoyed college. It was something he had endured, not embraced.

He knew that he hadn’t contributed anything to the campus life. He'd stayed isolated, headphones permanently clamped to his ears, avoiding clubs, events, and any sense of connection. He hadn't even cared when he heard about the possibility of the college closing. Now the announcement was official.

The barista sighed. "Rough news, huh?" David just nodded, his throat suddenly tight. He pulled out a crumpled receipt, his thumb tracing the blurry print. The taste of stale coffee soured in his mouth. He felt like he should have done something, anything, but the feeling wasn’t tied to anger or sadness. It was like his conscience was a dull, useless thing.