Gemotions

He stared at the acceptance letter, the words blurring slightly through a sudden shimmer of tears. For James, this scholarship was the lifeline he desperately needed. His family had been through so much, and this was his chance to break the cycle. He imagined the pride on his parents' faces, the relief that would wash over them. His chest felt full, a sensation he hadn't experienced in years.

He already picked out the textbooks, the courses he would take, the extracurriculars that interested him. He felt as if he could leap over any hurdle. The world seemed brighter, full of color and promise.

The registrar's email hit him like a physical blow. A request for an urgent meeting. His smile vanished, and the blood drained from his face.