Gemotions

The email sat in the inbox, mocking him. “Congratulations! Your essay has been selected as a shining example…” He slammed his laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in the otherwise silent apartment. His jaw clenched, a muscle jumping in his cheek. He’d poured his soul into that damn essay, not for posterity, but for *himself*. Now, some editorial board in their ivory tower was going to dissect his teenage angst for the amusement of prospective applicants. He kicked a discarded pizza box across the room.

He grabbed his coat and keys, the abrupt movement sending a jolt of heat through his chest. He needed air. He needed… something. The campus was probably buzzing with these kinds of announcements. He pictured the wide-eyed, eager freshmen, poring over his raw vulnerability, judging him. It made his stomach churn.

He sped down the street, the wind whipping his hair into his face. He’d take the long way, lose himself in the anonymity of the city. Forget the saccharine, perfect examples. Forget them all.