Gemotions

The invitation crackled as it was ripped from the envelope. Liam's apartment was dimly lit, the curtains drawn against the bright afternoon sun. The words, "Come Celebrate!" seemed to mock him. He balled up the paper into a tight fist. His hands shook as he tossed the ball of paper into the trash, the metal receptacle seeming to amplify the clatter.

He felt the familiar thud in his chest, a deep feeling of discouragement. The thought of seeing his former classmates sent a fresh wave of despair through him. Liam slumped onto the sofa, the silence of the room amplifying the pounding in his head. The weight of his decisions, the path he had chosen, felt crushing.