Gemotions

Rain lashed against the dorm window, mimicking the ache in Liam’s chest. He stared at the ceiling, the familiar popcorn texture blurring through unshed tears. The crumpled page lay on his desk, the one where he’d confided about his crippling fear of failure. He should have known better, kept it locked away. Now, his deepest insecurities were laid bare, exposed to the judging eyes of his roommate, Mark.

He clenched his fists, knuckles white against the worn comforter. The shared room felt suffocating. He’d avoided Mark all day, but he knew eventually they would have to confront the issue. How could he look him in the eye after what he’d done?

A knock on the door, tentative and quiet. Liam closed his eyes. Mark’s voice, a hesitant whisper, cut through the silence. "Hey, can we talk?" He didn't want to.