Gemotions

The university’s response was brief, dismissive. He wanted to rip the computer from the table, but he forced himself to stay seated. He felt a profound sense of inadequacy. A weight settled on his shoulders, making it hard to breathe.

He had told everyone he was a shoo-in. Now, the embarrassment burned like acid in his stomach. He avoided eye contact with anyone in the hall, feeling like they knew his secret.

He went to his usual spot on the quad, the place where he had dreamed of the future. The sunlight felt harsh, the laughter of the other students mocking. He just wanted to disappear into the crowd.

He pulled out a crumpled application essay. He’d poured his heart into it, and now it felt like a useless piece of paper. He tore it in two.