Gemotions

He stood in the doorway, staring at the empty hall, the venue he had booked. The vibrant decorations, the carefully chosen music system, all prepared and ready for the event. The email had arrived earlier. “Regretfully cancelled.” He felt a profound sense of deflation, like a punctured balloon. He had meticulously organized every element, from the guest list to the menu. It was to be a celebration of his new achievements.

The venue's staff gave him a look of shared sympathy. The air felt thick, heavy with unspoken disappointment. He walked to the bar, and leaned against the counter. He ordered a double scotch, then took a long, slow sip, the harsh liquid doing little to dispel the hollowness that had settled in his core. He considered calling his friends. He couldn't bring himself to even utter the words.