Gemotions

He slammed the laptop shut, the metallic thud echoing in the library. His knuckles were white. The scholarship rejection had confirmed his worst fears. He gripped the edge of the table, his gaze darting around the room, assessing each student, each book, each shadow.

He felt a prickling heat under his skin, as if he were constantly being watched. The library's hushed tones, usually a source of comfort, now felt like whispers, conspiring against him. He rose abruptly, pushing his chair back with a scrape that made several heads turn.

He walked out, not towards the exit, but towards the back entrance, wanting to be aware of all the exits and entrances to the building. He scanned the street, taking in the surroundings, every detail cataloged in his mind.