Gemotions

The smile on Ben's face felt tight, forced. He forced himself to shake hands with his friend, but his grip was firm. Too firm. The news had come out in the middle of a celebration, and he felt the joy of the day curdle inside him.

His eyes darted around the crowded room, his gaze settling on his friend. The friend was laughing and talking with other people, like nothing had happened. Ben’s chest tightened, a knot forming in his throat.

He excused himself and walked away from the gathering, needing to be alone. The weight of it all was almost too much to bear. He walked outside, into the night air, and leaned against the brick wall of the building. The world had tilted on its axis, and he was left reeling.