Gemotions

"No," Ben said aloud, the word a soft exhalation against the quiet of his apartment. He looked again at the screen. The financial aid offer, which was tied to the scholarship, was now revoked. He felt his stomach twist. He didn't know what to do.

He rose from his chair. He walked, slowly, across the small living room, his bare feet silent against the hardwood floor. He felt a need to do something, anything, but the feeling seemed to be a futile task. He stopped, and ran a hand through his hair.

He thought of his sister. He thought of his parents. He thought of the sacrifices they had made for him. Guilt mixed with a growing sense of panic. He didn't know how to explain this. He felt a deep ache inside.