Gemotions

The world seemed to spin around Ethan. He sat on the park bench, the notification on his phone radiating like a searing brand. "Withdrawn...scholarship...ineligibility." His breath caught in his throat. He’d made plans. He'd booked his flights. He had arranged his accommodation. All of it was now a crumbling illusion.

He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to fight back the overwhelming feeling of dread. He felt like he was underwater, struggling for air. The thought of telling his friends, his family, was unbearable.

He wrapped his arms around himself, trying to contain the tremors that racked his body. He stared at his feet, lost in a swirling vortex of worry. He needed to be alone. He stood up, and stumbled away, the setting sun casting long shadows that seemed to mock his every step.