Gemotions

The knot in Liam's stomach tightened with every step he took towards their dorm room. He’d left his journal on his desk, carelessly, a week ago. Now, he hesitated at the door, his hand hovering over the handle. He imagined his roommate, Mark, lounging inside, perhaps even smirking at some private revelation. Liam’s breath hitched.

He pushed the door open, the silence of the room amplifying the pounding in his chest. Mark was hunched over his laptop, headphones on. Relief washed over Liam, but it was fleeting. His gaze drifted to his desk. The journal lay open, exactly where he’d left it. He backed away a step, his mouth suddenly dry.

Liam feigned a casual cough, trying to appear unconcerned. "Hey, Mark," he said, his voice sounding thin. Mark glanced up, nodded, and went back to his screen. Liam’s eyes flicked between Mark and the journal. He had to know. He couldn’t bring himself to ask.