Gemotions

The restaurant was empty. Not a single soul. A waiter, wiping down a table, gave him a bewildered look as he entered. "Excuse me?" he mumbled. David felt a rush of heat flood his face. The reserved table, the anticipated music, the warm embrace of friends – all gone, vanished into thin air. He felt a distinct, physical lurch.

He’d arrived early, eager to be the first. He’d meticulously chosen his outfit, practiced his smile. Now, he felt the familiar pinch in his throat, a sensation of something abruptly snatched away. He’d poured so much of himself into preparing for it.

He looked around, feeling completely exposed. It was like a dream turning sour. He was suddenly aware of the loud hum of the air conditioning. He swallowed hard, trying to process the information, searching for some explanation.