Gemotions

He’d sent a text, meant for his friend, about his dislike of his new neighbor, directly to the neighbor. He slumped against the wall, the brick cold against his back. A wave of heat washed over him.

He knew he'd made a huge mistake. He’d seen the neighbor earlier in the day, a friendly wave and a smile. He felt a bitter taste on his tongue, a combination of embarrassment and dread.

He pulled his phone out again, staring at the screen. He knew he'd have to say something, but the words wouldn't come. He felt a deep sense of discomfort, a tightening in his chest that made it hard to breathe.