Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen, a stark contrast to the empty silence of the house. John stood, watching as his wife prepared for the picnic he'd planned. His friend, Paul, was hosting a dinner, and planned to invite everyone. John had only wanted to be alone.

He shifted uncomfortably, the silence between them almost palpable. He watched her cheerful energy with a flicker of resentment. Her excitement just felt like a burden. The thought of being around other people made his skin crawl.

He pushed his hands into his pockets, avoiding her gaze. He thought about the endless conversations he would need to endure, the forced smiles, the hollow compliments. He wished he could just vanish, escape the world, be entirely alone. He didn't want the party.