Gemotions

A grin stretched across Leo’s face as he walked into the dorm, the scent of fresh baked cookies drifting down the hall. He had a date tonight with Maria, who finally seemed to reciprocate his feelings. He'd poured his heart into his journal lately, detailing every flutter of excitement. As he opened his door, a chill passed through him. His journal lay open on his desk, not where he had left it.

He paused, a warmth slowly receding from his chest.

He found Liam, his roommate, in the common room, headphones on, seemingly oblivious. "Dude, everything good?" Leo asked, forcing a smile.

Liam nodded, offering a thumbs up.

Later that evening, Leo looked at himself in the mirror, feeling the joy he had felt hours before crumble. His date was ruined.