Gemotions

Liam was in the middle of a boisterous debate with his friends about the merits of a particular video game when the text arrived. He glanced down at his phone, his smile fading as he read the brief message. His throat constricted. He excused himself, murmuring something about needing to use the restroom, and practically sprinted towards the sanctuary of a stall. Inside, he leaned against the cool tile, his breath coming in shallow gasps. He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands until his scalp ached. He felt the blood rush to his ears, the world fading to a muffled buzz.