Gemotions

The professor’s words echoed in Leo's head, each syllable a heavy stone. "Plagiarism." He rubbed his temples, a dull ache throbbing behind his eyes. He felt as though he were wading through thick glue. Even standing felt like too much effort.

He avoided his friends, the usual boisterous energy of their group unbearable. He found a quiet corner in the campus café, ordered a coffee, and stared out the window. The sunlight felt harsh, the noise of the world too loud.

His phone buzzed with a message, but he didn't even bother to check it. He was drowning in it, and all he wanted was for it to stop. The thought of fighting the charges felt impossible, like climbing a mountain made of sand.