Gemotions

He found himself pacing his meticulously organized apartment, the polished wood floor reflecting the harsh fluorescent light of the kitchen. He tugged at his collar, feeling a tightness in his chest. His date with Robert was supposed to be special. A chance to unwind after a brutal week. Now, that felt impossible. The message from Ethan, identical to the one he'd just sent, confirmed his worst fears.

His jaw clenched. He swiped at his phone, his fingers clumsy on the screen. The air in the room felt thin, difficult to breathe. He wanted to scream, to lash out, to make the impossible disappear. He ran a hand through his already dishevelled hair.

He was trapped.