Gemotions

The meticulously arranged buffet table, the overly cheerful decorations, the forced smiles – all of it grated on Clara's nerves. She watched her father greet guests, his face a mask of false humility. The whole event felt like a shallow parade of empty gestures.

She approached the podium, a deliberate stiffness in her posture. She spoke of her father’s career, his hard work. Her voice was flat, devoid of emotion. She chose her words carefully, focusing on facts and figures, avoiding any personal anecdotes.

She finished quickly and sat down, a sense of grim satisfaction settling over her. She watched the party continue, the forced merriment echoing in her ears.