Gemotions

Liam was already in a foul mood. The bus had been late, the coffee shop was out of his favorite oat milk, and his shoelace had snapped. He had just arrived at the library, ready to begin his research paper, when his friend texted him the link. His heart sank as he scrolled through the online page, recognizing the familiar, slightly self-deprecating tone of his essay.

He gritted his teeth, feeling the familiar tightening in his jaw. The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, adding to the general sense of unease. He wanted to scream.

He threw his phone down on the table, the small sound echoing in the otherwise quiet room. He felt the impulse to just leave, walk out and not return until the feeling faded.