Gemotions

The dance floor pulsed with music and energy, a stark contrast to the quiet apathy that had taken root within him. He sat at the back of the room, nursing a lukewarm beer. He'd considered ordering a pizza instead of attending, but the guilt, always the guilt, had won. The prospect of social interaction filled him with a quiet dread.

He watched the couples twirling and laughing, the vibrant celebration a sharp reminder of his own isolation. Then he saw her. He had to remind himself not to make eye contact. His breath hitched.

She was across the room, talking animatedly with a group of friends. He willed himself to remain seated, hoping she wouldn't notice him. He felt the familiar desire to simply vanish.