Gemotions

David felt a sudden weight on his shoulders as he sat. The air seemed thinner, harder to breathe. He blinked repeatedly, trying to clear his vision, which felt strangely blurred. The ornate decorations of the hall seemed to vibrate.

He'd been up late the night before, rushing to finalize his speech. Now, the words escaped him. A warm, unsettling numbness spread through his body. He wished he could simply disappear.

He focused on his father's smiling face, trying to muster some energy. He knew he had to deliver. The pressure mounted, creating a slow, pounding ache behind his eyes.