Gemotions

The innocuous office banter felt like a personal assault. David, normally a relaxed and jovial colleague, was now detailing a childhood prank involving a water balloon. The words, the imagery, felt like a barrage aimed directly at Liam. He felt a desperate need to escape.

He abruptly stood, knocking his chair back with a loud clatter. The sound echoed in the sudden silence. He quickly made up an excuse about a phone call. The office felt as though it was closing in, that the walls were beginning to constrict him.

He hurried towards the exit, his movements jerky and uncoordinated. He focused on his feet, avoiding eye contact, desperate to get away before his secret was revealed.