Gemotions

I walked into the team party, the noise and laughter suddenly grating. My smile felt like a mask, glued to my face. Everyone was celebrating; their dreams realized. I nodded and offered a strained congratulations, each word like sand in my throat.

I couldn’t bring myself to make eye contact with anyone. I kept my gaze fixed on my shoes, wishing a hole would open and swallow me whole. The aroma of pizza and the loud music were nauseating. I squeezed my way through the throng, pretending to be searching for a friend.

The closer I got to the door, the more my heart raced. I had to leave. I had to get away from this celebratory atmosphere. I had to hide.