Gemotions

The request from Kevin O'Connell felt like a punch. He'd done everything to move on, to build a life where his insecurities wouldn't follow him. Now, here was Kevin, reminding him of all those years of whispered insults and targeted humiliation.

His breath hitched, a sharp intake of air. He pictured Kevin's face, the perpetual sneer, the coldness in his eyes. He felt a deep, gnawing unease, as if a predator had suddenly emerged from the shadows.

He stood up abruptly, pulling at his collar. The air in the room felt thick and heavy. He slammed his fist on the table, the sound echoing in the sudden silence. He went for a walk, needing the open space.