Gemotions

"So, how's that book coming along, Mark?" His uncle, always the one to ask the most pointed questions, had cornered him at the family reunion. "Fantastic!" Mark heard the tone of false cheer in his own voice. The book, his book, was now published under the name of the 'esteemed' Professor Peterson.

He forced a smile, a grimace masquerading as merriment. The smell of barbecue made him nauseous. He excused himself, citing a sudden headache.

Later, he stood by the lake, watching the sunset. It looked pretty, but all he felt was an icy hollowness. He clenched his fists, the tightness in his jaw a visible warning.