Gemotions

The email confirmation flickered on David’s phone, and he quickly slid it down. He couldn’t look at it, not yet. The weight in his gut was a heavy, unfamiliar presence. He ran a hand through his hair, already tousled from the day's stress. He walked to the window, the city lights blurred and distorted.

He imagined the phone call to his parents, the shame of having to tell them the news. The sacrifice they'd made, the belief they had in him... the thought was enough to bring a sting to his eyes. He squeezed them shut, trying to stop the tears, but the effort was futile.

He knew he couldn't hide forever. He had to face reality and figure out the next steps. Taking a deep breath, he walked back to his desk, took a seat, and opened his laptop again. He knew he had a long night ahead of him.