Gemotions

The coffee cup slipped in Liam’s grasp, the hot liquid splashing across his hand. He swore, wincing at the sting, but the pain was secondary. He had just seen the little green dot appear on his friend ‘ShadowWolf’s’ profile, indicating they were online. And then, the location prompt flashed on his screen. ‘Possible match near you.’

He quickly exited the app, the screen dimming. He rubbed his sweaty palms against his jeans, a nervous habit he hadn't realized he had. His heart hammered in his chest, a frantic drumbeat against his ribs. He felt a sudden, desperate urge to flee the coffee shop.

He glanced around, suddenly paranoid, acutely aware of every face in the room. He imagined a figure lurking behind the counter, a shadow in the corner, someone observing him. The mundane activity of the café became a menacing tableau. He grabbed his backpack, eager to leave.

Liam imagined ShadowWolf, with all his inside jokes, his vulnerabilities shared…existing in the same urban space. He bolted for the door, the bell above it chiming an unwelcome greeting as he left.