Gemotions

Mark, a veteran student, received the news during his online class. He felt as though the blood had drained from his face. The words felt like a physical blow. This wasn't just a disruption; it was a betrayal of everything he'd invested in.

He disconnected from the call, then closed his laptop. He needed to be alone. He walked through his apartment, restless, his hands clenched into fists. He had planned to retire after graduation, and now, the rug had been pulled out from under him.

He thought of all the time, the effort, the money… gone. His throat tightened. He stopped by the window and looked down at the empty street. He felt adrift, like a ship without a rudder, lost at sea.