Gemotions

The notification popped up on David’s phone during his anatomy lab. He excused himself, citing a sudden, urgent need for air. He slipped out, the sterile smell of formaldehyde suddenly nauseating. He sat on the cool stone steps outside, breathing deeply.

He looked at the message again. "Congratulations! Your essay has been selected…" He swallowed hard. His palms were slick. He felt as though the world was closing in, his throat tightening.

He pictured his parents reading it, sharing it with relatives. The thought made him squirm. He closed his eyes, squeezing them shut, trying to shut out the thoughts, the feelings that swirled within him.