Gemotions

He’d practically sprinted to the noticeboard, his feet barely touching the pavement. Liam’s palms tingled with anticipation. He’d practically lived in the lab these past weeks, fueled by coffee and a burning passion for his research proposal. The success he anticipated was going to change his life, and he could barely contain his glee.

His name wasn’t on the list. He scanned again, head tilting, brow furrowing. He must have missed it. He hadn't. A cold numbness spread from his toes upward, stealing the joy from the day, silencing the inner applause that had been his constant companion. He felt a sickening lurch in his stomach.

Liam slowly turned and walked away, the energy draining from him with each step. His shoulders slumped. The world seemed to dim.