Gemotions

The comments section was the worst. He scrolled through them, each word a tiny needle prick. They praised the essay, but he only saw the criticism between the lines. They didn’t know him. They didn’t understand.

He tossed his phone onto the couch, the screen flashing mocking notifications. He walked into the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water, his hand shaking so badly he spilled half of it. He stared at the mess, his mind blank.

He felt a deep sense of isolation, cut off from the world. Every encouraging word felt like a lie, every positive sentiment a hollow echo. He felt like an exhibit.