Gemotions

"No," Leo whispered, the word barely audible. The grade stung like a slap. He had poured every ounce of energy into this project, sacrificing sleep, friends, everything. Now, the coldness of the number felt like a betrayal. He picked up the phone, wanting to call someone, anyone, but the thought of the pity in their voices stopped him.

He slammed his fist against the desk, a sound of bitter frustration that echoed in the empty room. He felt a deep, raw ache, a hollowness that seemed to stretch from his gut to his soul. The air in the room felt thick, heavy, making it difficult to breathe.