Gemotions

The thought had been nagging at him all week, but he'd dismissed it as paranoia. Now, as he sat across from her, it was undeniable. The same girl, the one he used to tease mercilessly in middle school, was now a licensed professional.

He found himself struggling to find his voice. His throat tightened, making it difficult to breathe. He wanted to bolt from the room. He felt as though he was a child again, facing her during a brutal playground encounter.

He leaned back in the chair, trying to appear relaxed, but his hands were clenched in his lap. He could feel his heart hammering against his ribs, a frantic drumbeat of shame and regret.