Gemotions

The envelope landed on his doorstep like a venomous dart. He picked it up with two fingers, as though fearing contamination. The words “High School Reunion” were enough to induce a headache.

He considered ignoring the whole thing, but a different impulse took hold. He wouldn't miss it, not for a moment. He would ensure they all saw him. He would be the center of attention, the one everyone gossiped about.

He spent the next few weeks meticulously crafting an image. He joined a local gym. He took a crash course in wine appreciation. He practiced talking about his "successful ventures" in a voice that exuded effortless charisma.