Gemotions

The car engine idled, a low thrum that mirrored the frantic beating of his heart. Daniel stared at the neon lights of the bar, their garish glow reflecting in his wide eyes. The song, *his* song, blared from the open door, a distorted echo of his own voice. He’d poured his soul into it, a desperate plea for connection. A figure on stage, backlit by the spotlights, played it. The man’s effortless swagger filled him with a cold dread. He couldn't go in. He couldn't face it. He slammed the car into reverse and peeled away from the curb.