Gemotions

The familiar scent of old books enveloped him as he wandered the labyrinthine aisles of the bookstore. He'd always known that his online friend, Ben, shared his love for literature, but the sheer intensity of his passion was another story. He scanned the shelves, looking for Ben.

He eventually found him, completely engrossed in a tome. The simple act of observation, of seeing Ben in his element, stirred a storm of feeling within him. He felt… exposed.

He realized the intimacy of their online connection had been built on words. Now, seeing Ben surrounded by books, he was faced with something more profound, something that eluded him. He felt the need to flee, to protect himself from the tidal wave of emotions.