Gemotions

The car ride over was punctuated by strained silences. Sarah kept her eyes glued to the passing scenery, avoiding her mother’s attempts at conversation. The closer they got to the retirement venue, a converted country club, the more anxious she became.

She knew her mother would want a heartfelt speech, something about legacy and family and all the things she struggled to articulate. Her throat constricted at the thought. How could she possibly say anything that would sound genuine?

She found a quiet corner in the lobby, feigning a phone call. The bright lights and celebratory music only added to her unease. She kept glancing at the clock, counting down the minutes until her turn at the podium. This whole thing was a performance, and she wasn't sure she was up to the task.