Gemotions

He leaned against the wall, the brick cold against his back. He felt his pulse quicken as he waited. His rival was Ben, his friend for years. Now, this single interview threatened their bond. He felt as if a heavy weight had been strapped to his chest.

The interview itself was a blur, a series of awkward exchanges and missed opportunities. He could barely focus on the questions. When he was finally done, he stumbled out into the hallway, his legs feeling weak.

He saw Ben. The look on his face said everything. He’d won. He didn’t know what to say, and turned away. He wanted to escape, to disappear. The feeling was a crushing pressure in his chest.