Gemotions

The date, emblazoned in bold on the calendar, was a looming threat. It was his birthday, yes, but also, for some reason, Greg's. The invitations sat, pristine and perfect, mocking him.

He felt a tightness in his chest, a constriction in his throat. He saw conspiracy everywhere, hidden agendas, coded messages. He started unplugging appliances, dimming the lights, creating a fortress.

He abandoned his party completely. There was no safety in numbers. He locked the doors and sat in silence, waiting.