Gemotions

The formal attire felt like a cage, constricting. He unbuttoned the top button of his shirt, a small gesture that offered no relief. He found himself looking at his dad, who looked great in his retirement suit, and the thought that he was the same age his son was now, sent a current through his chest. It surprised him.

He cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. The words of the speech felt hollow. He needed to focus, this was about celebrating his parents, but his thoughts kept drifting, turning strange. He felt a tightening in his lower abdomen.

He spoke about their shared adventures, the challenges they overcame, the love that bound them. He looked at his mother's smile, as she looked at his father. His own smile felt strained. He took a long, slow sip of water.