Gemotions

John sat at the bar, nursing a beer, when he heard a familiar laugh. He turned, and there she was: *MusicMavenMia*, his online friend, the girl with the incredible voice and encyclopedic knowledge of indie rock. She was sitting with a group of friends. She lived here.

He felt the blood drain from his face. The world had tilted on its axis, and everything felt suddenly off-kilter. He knew he should say something, but he found his tongue tied. He looked away, focusing instead on his drink.

He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, the air feeling thick and heavy. He took a large gulp of the beer, and his heart pounded in his chest. He felt out of sorts.