Gemotions

The restaurant was too loud, the music too boisterous. Liam felt a pressure building behind his eyes. He'd just bumped into Ben, claiming to be "in between gigs" like usual, but now wearing a bespoke suit and speaking to a waiter like they were old friends. Ben had always presented himself as a struggling musician.

Liam excused himself to the bathroom, needing air. He leaned against the cool tile, staring at his reflection. His face was flushed, his expression a mask of confusion. He splashed water on his face, trying to clear his head, but the image staring back at him was alien, a stranger.