Gemotions

The news hit Ben like a physical blow. He read the announcement on the university website over and over, as if the words might somehow magically change. His jaw clenched. This cannot be real.

He stood up so quickly he knocked over his chair, the sound echoing unnaturally loud in the empty classroom. His hands shook as he picked it up. He felt a wave of nausea. He took several deep breaths, trying to regain control.

He walked outside, into the crisp autumn air. The familiar campus, usually a source of comfort, now felt like a prison. He wanted to scream. He was too ashamed.