Gemotions

“No,” Liam whispered, the word barely audible. He re-read the email, each word a cruel blow. The rejection felt like a personal failure, a reflection on his worth. He felt his face heat up, his hands clenching into fists.

He slammed his laptop shut, the metallic sound echoing in the library. The quiet, studious atmosphere of the room, once a sanctuary, now seemed oppressive. He couldn’t face the judging stares of his peers.

He gathered his belongings, his movements jerky and uncoordinated. He felt the sting of tears behind his eyes. He had let everyone down.