Gemotions

"You wouldn't believe the perks," Liam had boasted, recounting his job as a pilot. Private jets, exotic destinations, five-star hotels. Liam would always show off pictures of himself in front of planes. Jason, a struggling musician, had always been a bit intimidated by Liam's success. He felt as though Liam was rubbing it in his face.

The reality hit Jason like a physical blow when he showed up at Liam's apartment. It was a cramped, barely furnished studio, a far cry from the luxurious penthouse Liam had described. The framed "pilot" certificates on the wall were cheap copies. The stories came rushing back to him, and he could barely keep himself from laughing.

Jason, feeling a sudden surge of heat rise in his face, managed a strained smile. He cleared his throat. "So, uh, great place, Liam." His voice sounded thin, reedy, as though the words were somehow struggling to escape. He looked around.