Gemotions

The family gathering was in full swing, music blaring, laughter echoing. He stood in the doorway, a glass of punch clutched in his hand, feeling utterly isolated. The adoption discovery felt fresh. He had always felt a little out of place in this large, boisterous family.

He watched them dance, the familiar faces, the shared jokes, the easy camaraderie. He retreated to the patio, the cool air doing little to soothe the tightness in his chest. He felt small, invisible, suddenly convinced he was an unwelcome intruder.