Gemotions

The weight of the silence after the interviewer's final question was crushing. He sat rigidly in his chair, trying to project composure. Across from him, he knew, was his friend, Kevin.

His gaze flicked toward Kevin, who offered a sympathetic smile. He returned the gesture, but his own face felt stiff, artificial. The air in the room felt thick and oppressive, making it difficult to catch his breath.

He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture he realized was a nervous tic. He hated the idea of disappointing Kevin, but the thought of his own disappointment was even more painful. The walk back to the parking lot loomed like a long, arduous journey.