Gemotions

“Possible Match: Sibling.” The words swam before Leo’s eyes, a cruel joke. He’d always longed for a brother, a kindred spirit. This wasn't the way he envisioned it, not like this. His chest felt constricted, a tight, painful band.

He got up from his chair, a disoriented shuffle. He went to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water, his hand shaking so badly he spilled half of it. He felt trapped, cornered. He needed to talk to someone, but the thought of facing his parents, of asking the questions, filled him with a bone-chilling dread.