Gemotions

Liam stared at the email, the words on the screen blurring. "F" in organic chemistry. His stomach churned, a nauseating sensation that tightened his throat. This wasn’t possible. He'd spent every waking moment studying, sacrificing everything.

He slumped back in his chair, the cheap plastic creaking in protest. A wave of exhaustion crashed over him, a physical weight that pinned him down. He closed his eyes, picturing his father's face, the disappointment that was sure to follow.

He pushed himself up, mechanically, to go to the kitchen. The kitchen felt empty, devoid of life. He knew he should eat something, but the thought of food made his stomach lurch.