Gemotions

The library was empty, a haven of quiet for Kai. He loved the hushed atmosphere, the smell of old paper, the feeling of concentrated knowledge surrounding him. He leaned back in his chair, a contented sigh escaping his lips. He'd aced his midterm exams, and the thought of the upcoming break filled him with a tranquil anticipation. He was going to spend time with his family.

He checked his email, habitually. An official notice from the school, and a knot of dread formed in his gut as he read the opening lines. His scholarship was no longer available. A clerical error meant the funds were being reassigned.

He stood up so quickly the chair fell over. A wave of dizziness rolled over him, and he stumbled to a nearby window. The sun, previously so bright, now felt like a spotlight on his exposed face. The comfort he derived from the books around him turned into oppressive, solid weight. He needed to sit down, to breathe, to figure out what to do next.