Gemotions

He stared at the menu, unable to find anything appealing. This entire event, the perfectly set tables, the forced gaiety, it all felt suffocating. He watched his mother wave to a friend, her face radiant with happiness, and a knot tightened in his stomach.

When it was his turn to speak, he stood, the notes he had prepared crumpled in his hand. He spoke of his mother’s career, her dedication. Her commitment. His voice was steady, yet flat, devoid of any genuine affection. He focused on the details, on the facts, avoiding any hint of personal connection. He felt a deep, profound disinterest.

He ended with a perfunctory congratulation, and returned to his seat, a sense of relief washing over him. The party felt like an eternity.