Gemotions

The university’s website shimmered on the screen, reflecting the late afternoon sun. Mark clicked the link. The page loaded. His essay. He scrolled, his fingers hovering over the text. He could feel his pulse quickening, a low thrum in his ears. The feeling made him want to shut the computer down, to be anywhere but here. He looked at the window instead. The leaves were starting to turn. He pictured the squirrels playing in the park across the street. He’d rather be there. He would not let this disrupt his routine. He shut the laptop and went to find something to eat. He deserved it.