Gemotions

The email sat in the inbox, taunting. Liam stared at the subject line: “Coffee?” He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture. The words swam before his eyes. He had the distinct impression his teeth were grinding with the force of a thousand boulders. He leaned back in his chair, the squeak of the plastic a grating sound.

He stood up so fast, his chair nearly toppled over. He paced his apartment, each footfall a heavy thud. He felt a rising pressure behind his eyes, a sensation like a balloon about to burst. He’d let this person into his life, shared secrets, confided vulnerabilities, and for what? To discover he was within walking distance?

He grabbed his jacket, the fabric rough against his skin. The idea of face-to-face seemed utterly repulsive. But the thought of avoiding it was worse. He would not let him get away with this.