Gemotions

David practically danced into the music room, his guitar case swinging playfully. He’d spent all summer perfecting his audition piece for the school band, and he was convinced this was his year. The air was thick with the scent of wood and the faint echo of previous auditions. He greeted the other students with a series of exuberant handshakes and infectious laughter. When he started to play, the music flowed from him, a torrent of melody fueled by pure exhilaration. His fingers danced across the fretboard, each note filled with pure joy.

Mr. Peterson, the band director, stopped him mid-song, a frown creasing his brow. "David, could you come here, please?"

The music seemed to die within him.