Gemotions

Michael clutched the invitation like a lifeline, the paper crinkling in his sweaty palm. His apartment was cluttered with takeout containers and overdue library books. He hadn’t spoken to anyone, save for the cashier at the grocery store, in days.

He reread the details. "Twenty-year reunion." A hollow laugh escaped him. Twenty years since he'd last felt truly connected.

He imagined the conversations, the inevitable questions about career and family. He winced, knowing his response would be brief, evasive, and ultimately, disappointing. He pushed the invitation to the side, then retrieved it, staring at the pictures of his classmates.