Gemotions

John sat on the edge of the bed, the cheap mattress sagging under his weight. Today was his birthday, a milestone he was meant to be celebrating. His friend, Chris, was throwing a huge party, a rock concert theme. John's small gathering felt inconsequential. He pulled the covers over his head, shielding himself from the world.

He could feel the familiar hollowness spreading through him, a feeling that had become a constant companion. The room seemed to darken, the silence pressing down on him.

He thought about the cake, the people, the forced smiles he knew he would struggle to manufacture. He closed his eyes, and the world faded.