Gemotions

The preparations were meticulous. The caterers, the decorations, the guest list—everything was planned to the smallest detail. He, however, was in a state of agitation, unable to focus. His mother, a renowned scientist, was retiring. The task of giving a speech was paralyzing, an impossible mountain to climb. He experienced a profound sense of disconnect.

The retirement party was held in the university's grand hall. He approached the podium, his heart thudding in his chest. The room seemed to spin. He felt as though he had stepped into a dream.

He started to speak, but the words faltered. His throat tightened, and his mind went blank. He struggled to connect with the prepared text, a sensation of being utterly adrift overwhelming him. He mumbled a few sentences and then sat down, mortified.