Gemotions

“Wow,” said Ben, his voice a hushed whisper. He stared at the screen, his breath quickening. The essay, his essay, was there, displayed prominently on the university website. A tremor of elation ran through him. His palms began to sweat.

He read the words, the familiar rhythm, the honest heart he had poured onto the page. He remembered the long nights, the self-doubt, the moments he almost gave up. Now, it was all worth it, all validated. He stretched, a deep, satisfied sigh escaping him.

He clicked on the comments. He absorbed the praise, letting it fill him, nourish him. He could do this. He had the strength, the drive, the talent. His shoulders straightened, and he took a step forward, into the world.