Gemotions

"Congratulations," he managed to choke out, the words feeling alien and foreign on his tongue. He forced a smile, but it felt stiff, unnatural, like a poorly constructed mask. He couldn't meet her eyes. He focused on the patterns in the carpet instead.

The words of praise and encouragement, as they poured out of him, were empty, insincere. It was as if something was lodged in his throat, preventing the true feelings from escaping. He just wanted to get away.

He excused himself, mumbling something about needing to take a phone call. He retreated to his office, shutting the door behind him with a decisive click. He leaned back in his chair, the silence amplifying the turmoil in his head.