Gemotions

"Are you *kidding* me?" Javier’s voice was a low growl, barely audible above the hum of the coffee shop. He slammed his fist on the table, making the ceramic mugs jump. The barista glanced over, her face a mask of polite concern. He ignored her.

He pushed his chair back, the legs scraping loudly against the tile floor. He felt a burning sensation in his chest. *No scholarship*. The words echoed in his head, a constant, throbbing reminder of his failure. He grabbed his backpack and abruptly left, the bell on the door jangling like a mocking laugh.