Gemotions

From his vantage point behind the counter at the record store, Alex watched the woman walk in. The woman was wearing a distinctive band t-shirt, one he’d mentioned he liked during their late-night online chats. She browsed the new releases, humming softly. *VinylVixen*, his online friend, was standing right in front of him.

He felt the blood drain from his face. His carefully curated, private online world was colliding with reality. He felt a subtle pressure, like the air had changed. He couldn't quite bring himself to speak. He tried to focus on his work, but his mind was racing.

He straightened the albums, each movement feeling clumsy and exaggerated. He imagined the conversation, the explanations. He felt a sudden impulse to hide, but knew that was impossible. He knew she would realize it was him.