Gemotions

He paced his tiny dorm room, the worn rug a familiar comfort beneath his feet. The words, "Academic Dishonesty," still echoed in his mind, a constant, unwanted refrain. John ran his hands through his hair, dislodging a few strands. He felt a hot flush creep up his neck.

He felt the sudden urge to run, to escape the suffocating walls. He bit his lip, trying to focus, but his thoughts were a frantic scramble. Images of his parents, of his future, of the shame, flashed before his eyes. He felt a sudden, sharp pain in his chest.

The accusations… the evidence… it was all falling apart. He had to think. But he couldn't. His chest heaved, taking in short, rapid breaths.