Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the playground seemed to mock him. James, his best friend, was throwing a party at the local amusement park. His own party, a simple gathering at the park, was already sparsely populated. A knot of dread tightened in his stomach.

He watched the kids, their shrieks of laughter echoing through the air, feeling the familiar sting of envy. He clutched his own, hastily decorated cake. It looked… pitiful.

His breath hitched as he watched more children arrive with brightly wrapped presents. He felt the cold creep up from his stomach, invading his limbs. His voice felt fragile when he spoke.

He retreated to the picnic table, picking at the crumbs on the checkered tablecloth. He was invisible. He was a disappointment. He looked at the few gifts he had. He didn't want this.