Gemotions

Daniel rubbed his sweaty palms on his jeans. He’d been holding his breath for weeks, ever since he submitted his application. Now, the official message arrived, its digital ink stark against the white background. Rejected.

He exhaled slowly, a long, drawn-out sigh. The oppressive weight that had been pressing down on his chest suddenly vanished. He got up from his chair, a spring in his step. The world seemed brighter, less constrained.

He opened his window, letting the fresh air fill his lungs. He could finally start that woodworking class he’d always wanted to take. “Well, that’s that!” he called out into the open air, a grin splitting his face.