Gemotions

The notice fluttered to the floor as David's legs gave way. He landed heavily on the worn carpet, the impact jarring him. He stared at the damning words, his vision blurring. His hands were shaking as he slowly reached down and picked up the paper, as though it might vanish if he didn’t hold on tight.

The room swam around him. He felt disconnected, detached from reality. He imagined the faces of his parents, the worry etched on their features. The thought of admitting he had failed filled him with shame.

He stumbled to the kitchen and poured a glass of water, his hand unsteady. The cool liquid did nothing to quench the fire in his throat. He felt exposed, stripped of his dignity. The world, he suddenly realized, was a very cold place.