Gemotions

The subway car rattled and lurched, the metallic screech grating on Leo’s already frayed nerves. He gripped the pole tightly, his knuckles white. The rhythmic swaying made him feel seasick, and the close proximity of the other passengers intensified the feeling of being trapped. He just wanted to be home, to close his eyes and escape the relentless thrum of the city.

A young man, standing opposite him, swayed more than he needed to, his face pale and drawn. He muttered under his breath, something about the heat.

"You alright?" Leo managed, his voice barely a whisper above the train's roar.

The young man met his gaze and nodded slowly. "Just… can't seem to stay upright today. Feeling the effects." He paused, studying Leo carefully. "The dizziness, the disorientation… does this always happen to you?"

Leo didn't answer right away. He knew that the answer would be the same as the young man’s.