Gemotions

The smell of coffee, usually a comfort, felt acidic in Finn’s nostrils as he listened to Liam’s firm refusal. He felt a familiar hollowness spread through him, a feeling of freefall. Without Liam, he was sure he’d crumble. The thought of facing his anxieties without a buffer was terrifying.

"But...it would be good for us," he offered, attempting to keep his voice steady. He hated how his voice cracked whenever he was vulnerable.

Liam ran a hand through his hair, his brow furrowed. "We already have each other, Finn. We don't need a distraction." The words were like a physical blow.

Finn stared at his untouched coffee. The weight of potential solitude pressed down on him, crushing his spirit. His grip on the mug tightened, knuckles turning white.