Gemotions

The editor’s note – a scribbled postscript at the bottom of the rejection – felt like a personal affront. *Rewrite the ending.* As if her ending, her *vision*, wasn't perfect! Thomas slammed the laptop shut, the metallic click echoing through his study. A wave of nausea rolled over him. He felt something constrict in his chest.

He stormed outside, slamming the door behind him. The sun, previously a source of joy, now seemed to mock him with its brightness. He kicked a loose stone across the driveway, hearing it scrape against the asphalt. He started walking faster, trying to outrun the feeling, but the anger was a shadow, clinging to him.