Gemotions

The community center was supposed to be a hub of laughter and celebration. Instead, only the hum of the refrigerator broke the silence. The cake, frosted with elaborate designs, sat untouched, a lonely symbol of a feast that wouldn't be.

He stood frozen in the doorway, his eyes darting around the empty space. His heart was hammering against his ribs, a frantic rhythm that matched the confusion swirling in his head. His palms were slick with sweat.

He pulled his collar away from his neck. He felt hot, then cold, then hot again. He needed to get out, to *breathe*.