Gemotions

The stadium lights were blinding. The roar of the crowd, deafening. Liam had been trying to enjoy the concert. He'd agreed to go with his friends, a last-ditch attempt at connection. It was a famous band, one he'd never cared for. He felt the familiar rising panic, the feeling of being trapped. Then came the opening notes. *His* song, ripped from his soul and now echoing through the arena.

He felt the blood drain from his face. The air grew thick and heavy. A cold sweat erupted on his forehead. He gripped the seat, knuckles white. The performance felt like an invasion, a violation.

He barely heard the rest of the song, the melody a mocking reminder of his failures. He mumbled an excuse and stumbled away, desperate for the cool night air.