Gemotions

The restaurant was too fancy, the menu too expensive. He’d chosen it, hoping to impress, to show that he could do something “adult.” But now, he felt out of place, a fraud. The waiters' crisp uniforms, the hushed conversations, the clinking of silverware – it all felt like a performance he wasn’t ready for.

His friend, Mark, was late. He kept checking his watch, drumming his fingers on the pristine tablecloth. He ordered a simple water but knew he was sweating. What if Mark didn't like the place? What if he thought he was trying too hard?

He took a deep breath, trying to slow his racing heart. This was his birthday. He should be happy.