Gemotions

The anticipation had been building all day, and with it, a creeping sensation of weight. It started in his shoulders, then settled in his chest, making each breath a chore. His father's retirement party was in full swing, but he felt far removed from the joyful atmosphere. He had been dreading this for weeks.

He watched the other guests, their laughter and animated conversations seemingly from a different reality. He felt anchored to the floor.

He sighed, a deep, weary sound. His turn was coming up soon, and the thought of speaking made him want to hide. The burden of the speech felt unbearable.