Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, now felt cloying. Kevin sat in his favorite coffee shop, staring out the window, his usual sense of purpose seemingly absent. He'd received the rejection email, and he knew Emily was still in the running. They had both prepared relentlessly for this.

He tapped his fingers on the table. The words, "Thank you for your application," on the screen of his phone seemed to mock him.

He felt a sudden urge to get up and leave, to escape the pressure. He felt a deep, unspoken question forming.