Gemotions

The words felt like a physical blow. James felt the air leave his lungs as the professor made the accusation. His head was swimming. The hours he had spent on the research, the frustration and triumphs of the process, were all being erased. His carefully constructed identity as a diligent and honest student was in tatters.

He left the office, his legs heavy and unresponsive. He found a quiet corner in the library, and slumped into a chair. He rested his head on the table and felt a warm tear escape his eye. The library was filled with the low hum of voices and turning pages, but he was completely isolated. He felt the familiar ache in his temples, a headache beginning.

The world seemed to spin.