Gemotions

The university's annual art show. Leo had never wanted anyone to see the series of portraits he’d created during his darkest months. Now they were hanging there, framed and lit, for all to dissect. He considered turning around and leaving, but his feet felt glued to the floor.

He found himself staring at his painting of a self portrait. It was raw and vulnerable. The gallery seemed to tilt slightly. He felt a pull in his stomach, a physical manifestation of his distress.

A group of students walked past, snickering. He heard them comment on the painting's lack of technique. He had to bite his lip to keep himself from reacting. He wanted to disappear.