Gemotions

The room swirled, a kaleidoscope of faces and conversations. He found a quiet corner, away from the chatter, and stared at the centerpiece on the table. Artificial flowers, plastic and perfect. Just like the script he'd prepared.

He’d spent hours agonizing over the words, crafting a narrative of familial warmth and appreciation. But the paper felt cold in his hand. He wasn’t feeling anything. He was just going through the motions.

He saw his sister approach, a bright smile plastered on her face. She was going to go next, and he was next after her. He swallowed, the act felt like a chore, another item on a long, arduous list.