Gemotions

The news hit Michael like a physical blow. He read the email again, his vision blurring slightly. Denial. The word echoed in his mind, a relentless drumbeat. He sank back against the wall of the campus library, his muscles suddenly heavy and unresponsive.

He felt the blood drain from his face. The neatly organized rows of books, a symbol of his aspirations, now seemed to mock him. The world seemed to tilt on its axis. He felt a cold dread begin to creep through his veins.

He considered the implications. No scholarship meant no college. His future, once so clear, now shimmered, distorted. He felt the sting of tears behind his eyes. He willed them to stay.