Gemotions

The air conditioning hummed, a monotonous drone that did nothing to soothe the tension in John's shoulders. He looked across the desk at the man, Daniel Hayes. A therapist. Incredible. The boy who, with a sneer, had always made John's life difficult.

He felt the familiar thrum of anger pulse in his temples. He’d been struggling with anxiety, and this appointment was supposed to help. But seeing *him* instantly made everything worse.

He struggled to keep his tone neutral as Daniel began, “So, tell me a little bit about what brings you here.” Every word felt like a deliberate act of provocation. John found it difficult to concentrate.

He fought the urge to get up and leave, picturing the triumphant smirk that would likely spread across Daniel’s face. He could feel the pressure building, threatening to explode.