Gemotions

He had been waiting for weeks, and now, finally, the nurse had the file. He ran his hand over his hair as he looked at the name on the front: not his. A quick glance inside revealed a history of a different life, a different ailment – and a physical chart that was… impressive. He felt a sudden tightening in his chest, a sensation that had nothing to do with the doctor’s waiting room.

The nurse, a young woman with kind eyes, was chattering about the mix-up, apologizing profusely. He barely heard her. His gaze kept returning to the images, the notes, the data. He felt a strange tingling in his hands, a restlessness he couldn't explain.

"I need to report this," the nurse said, "right away, you should probably just..."

"Of course," he said, his voice slightly husky. "But, um… could I see the full file? Just to make sure…" He knew it was ridiculous, and that the doctor would be in soon, but he couldn't stop himself from feeling the pull.

He leaned forward, trying to appear casual, but he knew his posture was betraying him. His pulse quickened. He felt the blood rush to his face, making him burn up.