Gemotions

The brightly lit gym felt particularly oppressive today. Mark, usually energized by his workout, felt sluggish. The gym felt stifling now. He saw a familiar figure by the water fountain: Derek, the kid who relentlessly mocked his weight and appearance in high school. Derek, now a certified therapist, judging by the name embroidered on his gym bag.

Mark found himself adjusting his shirt. He was self-conscious suddenly. He avoided eye contact. He started lifting weights with greater force, his movements sharp and aggressive.

He focused on the iron weights, his movements loud and angry. He was going to leave. But he pushed himself to do one last set. He wasn't going to let *him* make him feel like this.