Gemotions

The email lay open on David's laptop, the words blurring before his eyes. "Hope to see you around sometime!" It was from Chloe, his online gaming buddy. The attached picture, a selfie, was taken in front of the local bookstore.

He swallowed hard. His mouth was suddenly dry. He found himself incapable of movement, frozen in place. His chest felt heavy, as if a weight had been placed upon it.

He imagined seeing her in person, the inevitable awkwardness, the exposure. He needed to be alone, immediately. He got up from his chair, knocking it over, the sound echoing in the silent room.