Gemotions

The going away party was a blur of forced smiles and shallow conversations. Michael saw him across the crowded room, his face lit up in the flashing strobe lights, laughing with friends Michael didn't know. He watched him like a hawk. Every time he tried to approach him he was blocked by someone else.

He grabbed another drink, the alcohol burning its way down his throat. The music thumped, a relentless pulse that mirrored the angry pounding in his chest.

The confetti rained down, a mockery of celebration. He felt completely isolated, the world closing in. The goodbyes felt so empty.