Gemotions

The academic advisor’s office was cluttered with files and overflowing bookshelves. Ben sat in a hard wooden chair, the uncomfortable seat mirroring the uncomfortable situation he found himself in. The advisor was slowly, painstakingly, outlining the university’s plagiarism policy.

Ben tuned out the specifics, his mind racing. He had other deadlines, other obligations. He needed to resolve this, to clear his name, and move on with his life. The advisor’s slow, methodical explanation was a roadblock, a deliberate obstacle.

He shifted in his seat, the wood creaking beneath him. He felt a constant, nagging tightness in his chest. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. But the minutes dragged on, each one an eternity. He was ready to explode.