Gemotions

A cold knot tightened in David’s stomach as he listened to Marcus, the star athlete, describe his acceptance speech. David slumped further into the worn armchair, picking at a loose thread on the cushion. Marcus, beaming, spoke of his future, his opportunities, the financial burden lifted from his family’s shoulders. The words washed over David, each syllable a reminder of his own failed attempt. He forced a smile, the muscles in his face protesting. The air in the room seemed to thicken, making it difficult to breathe. He excused himself, citing a sudden headache. He needed to get away, to be alone with the buzzing in his ears and the bitter taste in his mouth.