Gemotions

The news hit Ben like a physical blow. He crumpled the letter, tossing it aside on the kitchen table where he sat. He stared at the half-eaten breakfast, a plate of congealing eggs and toast. The hunger had deserted him.

His father’s jovial chatter was background noise. He couldn't meet his father's eye, anticipating the questions, the disappointment. He pushed away from the table abruptly, the chair scraping against the linoleum.

He retreated to his room, slamming the door. The sound was an act of defiance, a futile attempt to contain the turmoil within. He felt a deep hollowness, a void where his future had once been.