Gemotions

The argument with his boss had been brutal. He’d failed to deliver on expectations, and the consequences were now staring him in the face. His knuckles were white as he gripped the edge of his desk, fighting to contain the rising tide of shame.

Across the room, Emily, her smile usually bright, approached him hesitantly. “You okay, Liam?” she asked.

He just shook his head, unable to meet her gaze. He felt the familiar burn behind his eyes.

"I remember," she said, after a pause, "Camp Meadowbrook was the most awkward time of my life."

He looked up, a faint spark of something – maybe understanding – in his expression.