Gemotions

He stared at his reflection, barely recognizing the face staring back. He looked tired, older than his years. The team’s rejection was a physical blow, a dull thud in his chest that echoed with every heartbeat. He ran a hand through his hair, the familiar gesture doing little to soothe the anxiety that twisted in his stomach.

He was in his parents’ guest bedroom. The silence of the house magnified his inner unrest. He went downstairs, looking for something to do, but found himself wandering aimlessly through the kitchen, not knowing what he wanted. He opened the fridge and then closed it. The world seemed to have contracted, shrinking to the confines of his own solitary experience.