Gemotions

He was halfway through a cup of coffee when the notification popped up. Mark, the name blazed at the top of the screen. He nearly choked. The world seemed to wobble slightly. He gripped the mug tighter, as if to anchor himself. He felt a sudden, inexplicable heat flush his face. He’d meticulously constructed a life far removed from his younger self's torment.

He set the mug down with a clatter, the sound jarring in the sudden silence of the room. He felt a sudden urge to run, to disappear. He stood up, but his legs felt unsteady. He sank back into the chair, staring blankly at the screen, the name a persistent, irritating presence.