Gemotions

The cream-colored envelope felt heavy in Leo's hand. He turned it over and over, the embossed crest of Northwood High School mocking him. He’d avoided opening it all day, letting it sit on the kitchen counter like a forgotten landmine. Finally, he ripped it open, the crisp paper singing a shrill little song as it tore. His heart gave a sudden, unpleasant thump.

He scanned the invitation, his eyes darting across the words. “Northwood High School, Class of '04 - Tenth Reunion.” A cocktail hour, dinner, dancing. He pictured it: the forced smiles, the awkward small talk, the triumphant pronouncements of success he knew he'd have to endure. He crushed the invitation in his fist, then immediately regretted it, smoothing it out with a trembling hand.

He went to the fridge and grabbed a beer, though it was only 3 p.m. His hands were damp with sweat as he popped the top. Maybe he'd just tell everyone he was busy.