Gemotions

He had told everyone about the application, the hopes, the dreams. Now, he had to tell them the truth. He sat, staring at the screen, unable to bring himself to reply to the messages congratulating him. His phone started buzzing with more messages and calls.

He walked outside and sat on the steps, the cool concrete offering little solace. The sun was hot on his face, but he felt a persistent chill running down his spine. The neighbors were laughing, their voices seemed to pierce him, each one a taunt.

He reached for the cigarettes, something he usually avoided. He lit one and drew in the smoke, the acrid taste doing nothing to alleviate the emptiness in his chest. He flicked the ash, a single tear escaping, tracing a path down his cheek.