Gemotions

He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture he hadn't realized he was doing. The letter, discovered in a used copy of "The Great Gatsby," contained scathing criticism of his own work – his paintings, his chosen subject matter, his very talent. The words, penned with cruel precision, felt like a physical blow.

His stomach lurched. He felt his hands begin to sweat. He wanted to throw the book across the room, to smash the author's words into oblivion.

He closed the book slowly, carefully placing it back on the shelf. He didn't say a word. He would not give them the satisfaction of seeing him upset. Instead, he turned and left the bookstore, his back straight, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon.