Gemotions

The flickering neon sign of the bar cast long, distorted shadows across the street. David pulled his collar up, the chill of the evening biting at him. He didn’t want to be here.

His friend, Kevin, had dragged him out to revisit their old stomping grounds. They were supposed to reminisce. Kevin was already regaling the bartender with tales of their legendary poker night. He recalled winning big, the thrill of the gamble.

David remembered losing almost all his savings. He remembered the sinking feeling in his stomach, the uncomfortable silence on the drive home. "I thought you were going to be sick," he said, the words coming out clipped. Kevin slapped him on the back, laughing. David took a long pull from his beer, the taste metallic.