Gemotions

The notification buzzed again. Liam slammed his laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in his small apartment. It was Maya, his online friend of two years, asking if he was free for coffee. He groaned. He’d been looking forward to a quiet evening of coding, not navigating the awkwardness of a real-life meeting. He hadn't told her he lived in the same city. The whole thing felt… off.

He slumped back in his chair, the cheap plastic creaking under his weight. Sunlight streamed through the dusty blinds, highlighting the swirling dust motes dancing in the air. He ran a hand through his already messy hair. He really didn't want to.

Another ping. This time, a playful emoji. He felt a muscle twitch in his jaw. Fine. He texted back a curt "Yeah, why not." He immediately regretted it.