Gemotions

The air crackled with a forced cheerfulness as she listened to Daniel recount their college days. He was laughing, regaling the dinner guests with tales of their wild adventures, their youthful exuberance, and their unbreakable bond.

She remembered the crushing loneliness, the constant feeling of inadequacy, and Daniel's relentless social climbing, which had left her feeling utterly abandoned. She recalled how he'd always chosen the more popular crowd, leaving her on the fringes.

Daniel looked at her, expecting a reaction. He said, "Those were the best years of our lives!" She managed a brittle smile, then excused herself to the restroom, where she leaned over the sink and retched.