Gemotions

"Another round?" David, the junior colleague, had the audacity to offer. He was grinning, his face alight with an irritating confidence. "My treat." A smile stretched across his own face, but it felt hollow.

He felt a distinct lack of… joy. It was not a physical ailment, but the ache had gone deep, settling in his soul. It was a constant companion now.

Later, he avoided his usual Friday night drinks with his friends. The thought of feigning enthusiasm felt exhausting. He couldn't even manage a genuine smile.