Gemotions

The invitation sat on the coffee table, a stark white rectangle against the dark wood. David’s eyes darted around the room, as if the walls themselves might suddenly close in. He felt a familiar tightening in his chest, a sensation he hadn’t felt in years. He’d worked so hard to put the past behind him.

He hadn’t thought about high school in ages. Now, the memories – the awkward dances, the unrequited crushes, the stinging criticisms – all rushed back, vivid and unwelcome. He picked up the remote, clicked through channels, but couldn't focus on anything.

He got up, walked to the window, and stared out at the street. His hands were clasped tightly behind his back. The thought of seeing those people, of reliving those years, filled him with a strange, unsettling unease. He felt trapped.