Gemotions

The morning light was particularly bright, and everything seemed saturated with color. Daniel felt a lightness in his step, an internal hum of excitement. He'd just received an acceptance letter to his dream college. He checked his phone and saw a notification. Mr. Harrison, his history teacher, was now following him. His breath caught in his throat.

During the history class, usually a calm and collected student, he found himself almost unable to sit still. He felt a desire to contribute. Every fact, every date felt crucial, as if he needed to impress. He wanted to look engaged, as if he was excited to learn.