Gemotions

The essay had been his attempt at honesty, a clumsy attempt to be seen. Now, everyone saw it. He sat in the coffee shop, unable to finish his latte. He felt a constant, irritating thrumming in his head. The air around him felt thick, the noise of the cafe amplified.

He picked at a loose thread on his jeans. The words echoed in his head, twisting and distorting, a mocking refrain. He felt a deep sense of regret, a longing for anonymity. He pulled his hood up, trying to hide.

He considered leaving, walking away, disappearing. He looked out the window at the bustling street, a wave of dizziness washing over him. The world felt too bright, too loud, too intrusive. He was utterly, completely, exposed.