Gemotions

The news hit Ben like a physical blow. He sat frozen in his chair, the brightly lit computer screen reflecting his blank expression. The notification, a casual email, informed him of the administrative error. His scholarship, the very thing that made his education possible, was nullified.

A wave of nausea washed over him. He felt betrayed, as if someone had reached into his chest and squeezed his heart. He couldn’t breathe. He leaned back in his chair, trying to steady himself, and failed.

His gaze flickered around the cramped apartment, his sanctuary. Each object, the worn armchair, the overflowing bookshelf, suddenly seemed mocking. He wanted to shout, to smash something.