Gemotions

He found the email while scrolling through his inbox, a mountain of student loan reminders and professor updates. The subject line, bold and unwelcome: "Important Announcement Regarding the Future of Our Institution." A wave of heat washed over him, leaving him chilled. His fingers, usually nimble on the keyboard, fumbled as he clicked the link.

His shoulders sagged as he read the words, the familiar ache in his lower back intensifying. Years, he had spent here. Years spent studying, working, building a life. Now it was all dissolving.

He thought of his parents, the sacrifices they had made. The thought only increased the burden. He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. Then he closed his laptop, unable to look at it any more, and went to the window. The world outside felt very far away.