Gemotions

The email notification blinked, an accusing digital eye. Elias swallowed hard, the lump in his throat making it difficult to breathe. He’d refreshed his inbox a hundred times that day, each time praying for a different outcome. Now, the weight of the "denied" notification pressed down on him, making his chest feel tight. His fingers trembled as he clicked open the email, the words blurring as they swam before his eyes. He squeezed them shut, then opened them again, forcing himself to read the rejection. His stomach churned, a cold dread creeping through his veins. He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands.

The apartment felt suddenly smaller, the walls closing in. He stared at the ceiling, then jumped up to pace, the thin floorboards creaking under his weight. He replayed the interview in his mind, dissecting every answer, every nervous tick. He remembered the professor's smile, the reassuring nod. Had it all been a lie? He needed air. He grabbed his worn jacket, fumbling with the zipper.