Gemotions

He found himself fidgeting, adjusting the already perfect knot of his tie, smoothing down his already perfect suit. The spotlight felt like a branding iron on the back of his neck. His mother, at the head table, was positively glowing. She was the one who'd planned everything, and now, she was anticipating his words.

He hadn't been this anxious since his first school play. His stomach churned. He could barely meet the gaze of the audience, filled with colleagues and family members. Each supportive smile felt like a scrutinizing stare. He wished he could teleport himself anywhere else.

He cleared his throat, the sound unusually loud in the sudden hush. "So," he croaked, the sound far less confident than he intended.