Gemotions

The party was supposed to be a celebration. A farewell. But for Sam, it felt more like a wake. The music throbbed, the air thick with forced cheer. He stood alone in the corner of the crowded room, his drink untouched, the ice melting slowly in the glass.

He watched Chloe, his best friend, across the room. She was laughing, surrounded by friends and acquaintances, and her happiness felt like a personal betrayal.

The music pulsed in his ears, a constant, irritating reminder of the distance that was about to open up between them. He felt a burning sensation in his throat, a desire to scream, to lash out. He was trapped.

He had to get out, he felt the sudden and frantic need to run, to escape. He slipped out the back door, needing to find some space.