Gemotions

The celebratory dinner was a disaster. He’d tried to be happy for her, genuinely. But every toast, every congratulatory handshake, felt like another punch to the gut. The restaurant was far too loud.

He kept excusing himself to the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face, trying to compose himself. He couldn’t look her in the eye. He couldn't force himself to be happy.

He nodded along as she spoke of her future plans, her excitement bubbling over. Her enthusiasm seemed to amplify his own despondency, the realization of what he had missed a sharp, stinging pain. He excused himself early, the meal barely touched.

When he looked back, he saw her talking enthusiastically to others in the restaurant. The sounds of joy and happiness filled the place, but not his heart.