Gemotions

The campus cafeteria was noisy, filled with the usual chattering students. Leo sat alone, nursing a lukewarm coffee. He couldn’t bring himself to eat. The professor’s words still echoed in his ears, each syllable a fresh insult. He felt a throbbing pulse in his head.

He picked at the paper cup, shredding it with unnecessary force. He wished he could just disappear, vanish into thin air. He ran his hand through his hair, tugging at the strands, the action a manifestation of his inner turmoil.

Every glance from a passing student felt like a judgment. He avoided eye contact, his shoulders hunched. He didn't want to talk, he didn't want to explain, he just wanted this feeling to cease.