Gemotions

He had the door cracked open when the tapping came. Mr. Henderson, his face a roadmap of wrinkles, stood there, a disapproving frown etched onto his face. The music had been on, of course. Too loud. Again. Liam felt his cheeks flush.

His heart hammered in his ribs. He immediately apologized, his voice choked. He hated being the problem. He gestured towards the stereo, quickly turning it down. The bass was a low hum now, a dull ache in the background.

Later, he avoided the hallway, ducking his head when he saw Mr. Henderson watering his petunias. He busied himself at his desk, staring blankly at the screen. The feeling in the pit of his stomach was heavy and leaden.