Gemotions

The invitation crackled as Daniel crumpled it in his fist. The sound was satisfying, a small act of defiance. He flung the ball of paper across the room, where it landed with a soft thud against the wall. He stared out the window, his gaze fixed on the endless expanse of gray sky.

He felt a tightness in his jaw, a constant tension that had become a familiar companion. The weight of the past seemed to press down on him. The gathering... a public display of the things he had never achieved.

He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it standing on end. "Pathetic," he whispered, the word bitter on his tongue. He knew he'd inevitably have to face it, the inevitable wave.