Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a relentless drone that grated on Elias’s nerves. He hadn’t felt right since he overheard Brenda mention Camp Whippoorwill. His stomach felt like it was doing somersaults, and his hands, usually steady, were trembling as he fumbled with the stapler. He just needed to get through this meeting, pretend everything was fine.

He’d tried to avoid her all morning, a feat made difficult by their shared project. The way Brenda’s eyes lit up when she spoke about the camp…it was a look he hadn't seen in years, not since… he had to push the thought away. He plastered on a smile when she asked him for his notes, but he found it hard to meet her gaze.

"So, the archery range was your favorite, right?" Brenda asked, breaking through the silence. Elias felt a wave of cold rush over him. The words hung in the air, heavy and unwelcome. He managed a weak nod, his throat suddenly constricted. He needed to get out of here.