Gemotions

The news hit Ben like a physical blow. He stared at the cancellation notice, his eyes scanning it over and over as if a different answer would magically appear. His carefully planned surprise party for his father was ruined. He felt a sudden, intense heat that flushed his face.

He clenched his fists so tightly his knuckles turned white. His jaw tightened and he couldn't seem to swallow. The details of the evening, the dinner, the cake, the music – everything he’d envisioned – now dissolved into a blurry mess of frustration.

He leaned against the kitchen counter, trying to regain control. His chest ached with the effort. He needed to get away, to clear his head, before he exploded.