Gemotions

He stared at his reflection in the mirror, his features distorted by the tears that threatened to spill over. He’d rehearsed what he would say to his parents a hundred times, but the words still caught in his throat. He’d felt such pride in his accomplishments. Now, it was all reduced to this moment.

The door buzzer sounded. He knew it was his parents. He’d told them he’d made the team. He hated that he'd lied. He felt like his stomach was twisting itself into knots. His face was flushed with shame. He knew he had to face them.

He opened the door. Their smiles faded as they saw his face. He looked down, unable to meet their gaze. The weight of his own perceived failure pressed upon him. He didn't want to explain. He just wanted to disappear.