Gemotions

He felt like a caged animal, pacing back and forth in the overly decorated entryway. The scent of perfume and aftershave was suffocating. He kept tugging at his tie, which felt as though it was tightening around his throat.

The party was in full swing, but he felt disconnected, adrift. He wanted to escape, to be free from the stifling atmosphere. He thought about leaving, disappearing into the night, but the idea of disappointing his father held him captive.

He went outside to breathe. The cool evening air provided some relief. He looked up at the stars, a distant, beautiful world he longed to explore. The party beckoned, and he felt a renewed sense of dread.