Gemotions

The constant flow of chatter and laughter had become a relentless assault on his senses. He felt a profound sense of weariness, a deep depletion that seemed to radiate from his core. He fiddled with his tie, the fabric suddenly feeling constricting around his neck. He wanted to leave.

He caught sight of Hannah, her hand resting on the arm of her date. A pang of something akin to resentment twisted in his gut. The casual intimacy of their interaction seemed to mock his current solitude. He had to remind himself to breathe.

He excused himself, making his way to the balcony, hoping to find a moment of peace.