Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the staccato drumming in Leo's chest. He stared at the invitation, the glossy card mocking him with its bright colors and cheerful font. Maya's party. Laser tag and pizza. Fun. He crumpled it in his fist. His own party was the same day, a quiet affair at home, just a few board games and the obligatory cake. He sighed, the sound lost in the downpour. He felt a lead weight in his stomach, a dull ache that spread through his limbs.

The house felt cavernous even though it wasn't. The smell of dust and forgotten things hung in the air. He wandered into the kitchen, the linoleum cold beneath his bare feet. He opened the fridge, peered inside at the uninspired selection of leftovers, then closed it again. He wasn't hungry. The thought of setting up the games, anticipating the polite smiles, felt like a chore of monumental proportions.

He slumped onto the sofa, the cushions swallowing him whole. He felt like the inside of a cave. He glanced at the phone, willing it to ring, but it remained stubbornly silent. He didn't *want* to be alone, but the alternative seemed just as unappealing.