Gemotions

He stared at the email, the words on the screen vibrating. "Team-Building Retreat - Camp Clearwater, July 14th." The subject line was like a punch to the gut. Liam’s hand involuntarily clenched the mouse, his knuckles turning white. He'd done everything possible to put that summer far behind him.

His heart began to pound against his ribs, a frantic drumbeat against his sternum. He could feel the familiar constriction in his chest. Clearwater. The name itself felt heavy, weighted down with the ghost of a clumsy attempt at love.

He envisioned the campfire, the awkward games. Would Sarah be there? The thought made him feel like he was going to be physically ill. The retreat was mandatory. He glanced at the calendar; two weeks away. It felt like an eternity.