Gemotions

A tremor ran through Liam's hand as he reached for the water glass. His cousin, Sarah, had announced her intention to become a Buddhist. He felt a bead of sweat trickle down his temple. The room felt smaller now, the air thinner.

He took a large gulp, the cold water doing little to cool the sudden flush that bloomed on his cheeks. He noticed his sister’s amused glance and immediately turned away, suddenly fascinated by the intricate patterns in the tablecloth. He found himself fiddling with the loose thread on his jeans.

He wanted to ask a question, to understand, but the words caught in his throat. He wished he could disappear. He was acutely aware of how loud his breathing was.