Gemotions

The moment he saw the party decorations, he froze. Balloons, streamers, and banners screamed "Celebration!" – a stark contrast to the turmoil churning within him. He fumbled with his tie, the knot suddenly feeling impossibly tight, as if strangling him. He wished he could turn back time and avoid this gathering altogether.

He spotted his father across the room, smiling and chatting with guests. A wave of guilt washed over him. He knew he had to deliver the speech, to honor his parent, yet the fear threatened to overwhelm him. He took a deep breath, trying to regain control.

He felt a hot flush creep up his neck. He desperately wanted to disappear, to vanish into thin air. He spotted a vacant seat near the back of the room and made a beeline for it, hoping to remain unnoticed. He could already feel his voice cracking as he imagined the moment the emcee would call his name.