Gemotions

David stared at the ceiling, the patterns in the plaster a familiar, unwelcome distraction. He was supposed to be writing an essay, but the words felt distant, the task insurmountable. He got up and walked around his room, touching things as though they'd hold some answer. The afternoon sun cast long shadows, painting the room in a dull hue. He felt a desire to be somewhere else.

A news notification popped up on his computer screen: "Local Teen's Diary Makes Shocking Reveal!" He didn't recognise the name, but the curiosity was a relentless tide. Clicking on the link, he found himself staring at the familiar cover. His own. His teenage diary, now a public spectacle. He felt a sharp jab of pain in his chest.