Gemotions

"I'm a Jehovah's Witness now," announced Chloe, her voice unwavering. Her mother, her aunt, and her grandmother exchanged panicked glances. Chloe’s sister, Emily, was the only one who seemed supportive. Emily was used to going against the family grain. Emily’s brother, David, felt the color drain from his face.

He picked at his roast beef, the meat suddenly unappetizing. He tried to think of something to say, but his mind was blank. The room felt hot, the conversation strained. He felt as if he was drowning in an ocean of awkwardness.

Later, he excused himself and went to his bedroom. He stared at the ceiling, trying to process what had just happened. He wanted to scream, to lash out. Instead, he lay there, silent and still, the feeling of being exposed and misunderstood washing over him.