Gemotions

The room seemed to shrink as he took a deep, fortifying breath. He glanced at the crowd, then focused on the podium, willing himself to remain composed. His father was retiring. He had a duty.

He replayed the speech in his mind, ensuring every word, every inflection, was perfect. He pictured his father's reaction.

As his name was called, his heart leapt. He walked towards the microphone, feeling a sense of unstoppable momentum. His fingers lightly caressed the podium. "Good evening, everyone," he said, and then, he began.