Gemotions

The lobby was filled with hushed whispers and the scent of expensive coffee. David sat slumped in a chair, shoulders hunched, his hands twisting a rubber band around his wrist. The knot in his stomach was so tight. The name on the directory – "Elias Blackwood, LPC" – had punched the air from his lungs. Elias, who had delighted in tormenting him in the schoolyard.

He felt the familiar thrum of anxiety escalating.

He’d considered cancelling the appointment, but his wife had insisted. He felt the blood rush to his face when he heard his name. He was going to vomit.