Gemotions

The car ride over had been silent, the air in the vehicle thick with tension. He'd agreed to attend, but the thought of it made his head pound. He kept replaying the conversation he’d had with his mother last week where she’d demanded he participate.

He noticed the vibrant decorations, the catered food, the overflowing bar. He felt a deep disconnection from the scene. He wished he could teleport himself away.

He found himself wandering the perimeter of the room, avoiding eye contact and the inevitable questions. He didn't want to engage, didn't want to feign any emotions.