Gemotions

John stared at his reflection, the lines around his eyes etched deeper than he remembered. He felt like a deflated balloon, all the air sucked out of him. Another day, another struggle. He dragged himself to the coffee shop, hoping the caffeine would at least give him a fleeting sense of… something.

His therapist was supposed to be new, a fresh start. He’d booked the appointment weeks ago and today was the day.

The office was bright and airy, a stark contrast to his own dim outlook. He was met at the door by… Chad? Chad, the kid who used to steal his lunch money and trip him in the hallways. Chad, now sporting a neat beard and the title “Dr. Chad Thompson, PhD.” John's jaw clenched.

"Come in, John. Have a seat," Chad said, gesturing towards a comfortable armchair. The words felt hollow, like a bad joke.