Gemotions

The leather of the therapy couch felt unusually warm against Liam’s back. Across from him, staring at him with a look he couldn't quite place, was Emily Carter, who used to make his life a living hell. Now, she was “Dr. Carter,” her nameplate glinting under the soft overhead lighting.

Liam crossed his arms over his chest, but his pulse was drumming against his ribs. Each breath felt like a physical effort. He could feel the blood thrumming in his ears. It was a potent combination of fear and… something else.

“So, Liam,” Emily began, her voice smooth and measured. “Tell me about the anxiety.”

Liam swallowed hard and shifted, the motion a frantic attempt to find comfort in his own skin. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to talk, to spill everything.