Gemotions

The editor's words, delivered with polite professionalism, echoed in Leo's head. "Not quite ready." The words were like a physical blow. He stared at the manuscript, its pages now carrying the weight of his disappointment. His eyelids felt heavy, his body sluggish.

He wanted to scream, to throw something, but instead, he did nothing. He felt an urge to simply… *stop*. He sank into his armchair, the cushions swallowing him whole. The world outside, with its responsibilities and expectations, felt distant, almost unreal.