Gemotions

The world was newly painted, the colors vivid, the sounds amplified. He felt a sense of freedom he hadn't experienced in weeks, a lightness that made him want to run and leap. The very air seemed to vibrate with promise. He threw open his window, letting the cool morning breeze fill his lungs.

The open journal. The small, subtle shift in its position. His roommate, Alex, was suddenly very interested in the dust bunnies under the bed. The joyous anticipation drained away, leaving a bitter residue.

"Alex," he said, the words catching in his throat. The vibrant morning had become a monochrome shadow. He felt deeply, sickeningly exposed.