Gemotions

"Want to see that new exhibit at the museum?" John had messaged. Liam was his online buddy, the only person who knew all his secrets. The museum was… well, just a few blocks from John's place. He knew. Liam *had* to.

He considered the offer. It was the natural progression, the obvious next step. Why did the idea of it, of seeing Liam, make his shoulders tense up? He could say he was busy, and he had a perfectly good excuse, but he didn't. He had a free weekend. He was sure he should just agree.

"I have a terrible cold," he typed eventually, feeling a flicker of guilt. He added a few sad-face emojis for good measure. He sank back into his chair, a strange feeling of satisfaction mixed with something that felt like disappointment, as he hit send. He immediately started playing video games instead.