Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the arcade lights swam before him. John struggled to focus on the game in front of him. His friend, Alex, was celebrating his birthday, and the arcade was packed with people. But, today… today was his birthday too. He had envisioned a cozy night in, reading a book, maybe ordering a pizza.

He kept missing button presses, losing at every game. His hands felt clumsy, his movements uncoordinated. He felt a deep disconnect from his own thoughts, as if they were wandering through a fog.

"You alright, man?" Alex asked, clapping him on the back. John mumbled a response, feeling the blood rush to his face. The noise, the lights, the sheer energy of the arcade, was starting to become overwhelming. He felt a sudden urge to get out, to find some quiet.