Gemotions

He stared at the publication, his essay now the centerpiece of a prominent college blog. His carefully crafted persona – the cool, detached observer – now felt like a cruel joke. The essay, about his father's addiction, was a carefully guarded secret.

Now, everyone could know.

He spent the weekend locked in his room, pulling the covers over his head. The world outside felt hostile and judging. He avoided all calls and texts. He considered deleting all his social media profiles, and considered leaving college altogether.

The silence of his room offered him no comfort. Instead, it magnified the ache inside his chest.