Gemotions

Daniel hunched over his laptop, the dim glow casting long shadows across his face. He’d spent hours lost in the virtual world of ‘EtherealSpirit,’ a kindred spirit he'd met in an online writing group. They’d built a bond on shared frustrations, the feeling that the world was too loud, too bright. Tonight, EtherealSpirit had dropped a hint about living near a specific street.

He reread the message, the words blurring before his tired eyes. A tightening in his shoulders. An insistent pressure on his chest. It made him feel claustrophobic, trapped. He wanted to go outside, get some fresh air but the thought of facing the world made him want to hide.

He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture automatic, a ritual of despair. His phone buzzed - a text from his mother, a reminder to call. He ignored it, the sound a shrill interruption to his internal turmoil.