Gemotions

Liam sprawled across his bed, the book he’d been reading lying open on his chest. Sunlight streamed through the blinds, painting stripes across his skin. The gentle hum of the refrigerator was the only sound in the apartment. He had spent the morning surfing and the afternoon lounging. He was content. He reached for his phone, scrolling through his notifications. A new email from Professor Davis. He anticipated a glowing review of his final project on quantum physics.

His hand froze mid-scroll. The words swam before his eyes. "C-". A wave of heat washed over him, followed by a sudden chill. He sat up, the book sliding off his chest. His fingers fumbled as he clicked on the email again, as if the grade might magically change.