Gemotions

He stared at the notification: "Ms. Ramirez followed you." He felt a tightening in his chest, a sensation that made him want to pace. Ethan had never been the best student in science.

He scanned her profile, his breath catching in his throat. He remembered a comment she'd made about his project presentation, something about his lack of focus. Now he felt as if his skin was too tight.

The thought of encountering her in the lab the next day was almost unbearable. He kept clenching and unclenching his fists, his thoughts a chaotic whirlwind. He avoided all social interaction that evening, finding the silence of his room a small comfort.