Gemotions

The digital clock on the departure board seemed to mock him, the numbers crawling forward with agonizing slowness. "Delayed three hours" read the stark text. Michael felt a cold sweat break out across his skin. His best friend's bachelor party, in Vegas, was the ultimate guys' trip. He was supposed to be there now.

He felt a sudden urge to scream, to smash something. He balled his fists, fighting the urge. He looked around the departure gate, his gaze darting from face to face, as if searching for a solution, a lifeline. The thought of the night unfolding without him sent a wave of nausea through him.

He pictured his friends, the laughter, the camaraderie. He felt a profound sense of isolation, trapped in this metal box, away from it all. He began pacing the gate, his footsteps heavy and uneven.