Gemotions

"Oh, *come on*," Leo muttered under his breath, clicking the back button repeatedly on his browser. He scrubbed at his face with his hands, feeling the sting of unshed tears behind his eyes. The website, with its sterile layout and perky fonts, seemed to taunt him.

He felt the familiar tightness in his chest. His hands clenched into fists. He had hoped for different results. This was supposed to be a good thing, a validation of his hard work. Instead, it was a terrifying spotlight, illuminating every insecurity he possessed.

He spun around in his chair, trying to distract himself. He grabbed the nearest object, a stress ball shaped like a brain, and squeezed it until it felt like it would explode.