Gemotions

A wave of utter exhaustion washed over him. Mark shifted in his stiff suit, the collar suddenly feeling too tight. He rubbed his eyes, the pressure briefly relieving the dull ache behind them. His head felt disconnected from his body, like it was floating.

He remembered promising his father he would deliver a heartfelt speech, but the words seemed to have vanished. All that remained was a hazy fog in his brain. The catered chicken smelled delicious, but he had no appetite. He wished he could just close his eyes for a moment.

He watched the other guests milling around, their animated chatter grating on his ears. Everything felt loud and distant. It would be a while before his turn came. Just a little while.