Gemotions

The knot in Liam's stomach tightened as he unlocked the door. He’d left his journal on the desk, open to a particularly vulnerable entry. His roommate, Mark, was sprawled across his bed, headphones on, seemingly oblivious. Liam cleared his throat.

“Hey,” Liam said, trying to sound casual. Mark didn't react.

Liam dropped his backpack with a thump. He walked to the desk, pretending to examine a textbook. His fingers brushed the cover of his journal. It was closed now. He couldn't meet Mark's eyes.

He picked up a pen and started doodling furiously in the margin. The silence stretched, each tick of the clock amplifying his unease. He felt as if someone was breathing down his neck.