Gemotions

Rain hammered against the windowpane, mirroring the drumming in Elias's chest. He stared out, watching the streetlights bleed into a blurry watercolor. He should go to the grocery store. The fridge was bare, and all he had eaten today was stale toast. He just couldn't seem to muster the energy. Another yawn escaped, heavy and unwelcome.

His phone buzzed. A reminder: Therapy appointment. He hadn't been to therapy in months. He’d cancelled the last three appointments. Sighing, he picked up the device and saw a new message. It was from his old school friend, Maria. "Hey! Remember that jerk, Brad? Saw him the other day. Guess what he does now?"

Elias felt a coldness creep through him. Brad. The king of the playground, the one who'd delighted in making his life miserable. He didn’t reply immediately. He felt as though the blood had drained from his face.

“He’s a therapist. Can you believe it?” Maria had added. The message was accompanied by laughing emojis. Elias tossed the phone onto the couch and pulled the blanket tighter. The very thought of it turned his stomach.