Gemotions

The last class was dismissed, and the professor's voice faded. Ethan stayed rooted to his seat, paralyzed by the information. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to adjust the collar of his shirt.

He noticed the chipped paint on the desk, the scuff marks on his shoes. He suddenly felt a sense of inadequacy, as if the room itself was judging him. He didn’t want to face anyone.

He watched the other students file out of the classroom, their conversations echoing in the empty space. He felt alone, exposed, a failure in the harsh fluorescent glare. He wanted to burrow under a rock.