Gemotions

The support group meeting was the last place Mark ever wanted to be. He usually hated social interaction. But the doctor insisted. Now he was surrounded by other sufferers, their faces etched with the same weary lines. Then she walked in.

Her entrance felt like a spotlight, drawing all eyes. She had a confidence Mark could only dream of. He watched as the other members clamored to talk to her, eager to hear her experiences. She talked about a life full of travel, of success.

He found himself slouched in his chair, feeling invisible. He started picking at a loose thread on his jeans. He hadn't been to a new place in years. When the woman, finally, looked in his direction, he quickly averted his gaze.