Gemotions

The afternoon sun, usually a source of pleasure, felt like an enemy, beating down on my skin as I walked towards the park. My online acquaintance, "Viper," known for his caustic wit and utter disdain for humanity, had moved into my city. We’d arranged to meet at the park's gazebo. I just wanted to cancel, but I couldn't.

Each rustle of leaves, each chirp of a bird, grated on my nerves. The world felt overly bright, unnaturally loud. I spotted the gazebo. He was there, leaned back against a pillar, arms crossed, staring at me. He had a look that I thought was smug.

I slowed my pace. The closer I got, the more the tension in my shoulders grew. I hated myself for being here. I made a point of staring straight ahead.