Gemotions

John felt the familiar clench in his stomach the moment he saw the notification. The request was from Kyle, who, as a child, used to torment him in their small town. He was now a successful lawyer, John knew, from the local news. The irony was, John, a successful author, had finally created the life he'd always wanted, and had also become known in his own right.

He sighed, the sound heavy in the quiet of his study. He ran a hand through his hair, the action a familiar gesture meant to soothe his nerves. The room felt suddenly too small, the walls closing in. He looked out the window at the vibrant colors of the sunset, a familiar comfort. He found himself remembering the countless times he’d wanted to escape, to disappear. He deleted the request. He would continue to build his walls.