Gemotions

The band’s singer, Mark, had a hollow feeling in his gut. His friend, Leo, was performing his song at the open mic night. The lights were dim, the room was packed, and the air was thick with expectation.

Leo took the stage. His song, *Mark’s* song, about loss, had a raw sincerity. He’d written it for Leo, with his permission, when Leo’s father died. Leo was a better performer, with a captivating stage presence and his voice was much stronger. Mark felt a knot tighten in his throat.

Mark, hidden in the shadows, found himself clenching and unclenching his jaw. He could feel the eyes of the crowd, fixated on Leo. He, Mark, the songwriter, was invisible in the face of his friend’s captivating performance. He turned and quietly slipped out of the venue.