Gemotions

Liam stared at the cover of his journal, the worn leather suddenly seeming to mock him. His stomach twisted into a knot. He’d left it on the bed, carelessly, assuming it was safe. Now, he noticed a subtle crease on the corner of the front page. His roommate, Mark, was lounging on his own bed, scrolling through his phone, completely nonchalant.

Liam cleared his throat, the sound a dry rasp. “Did you… uh… were you looking at my journal earlier?” He tried to sound casual, but the words felt tight and constricted. Mark glanced up, his expression blank.

“No? Why would I do that?” he said, his voice light and airy. Liam swallowed, the knot in his stomach tightening further. He found he had to look away. He crossed his arms, the gesture intended to keep him separate, to build a wall.