Gemotions

The sleek, black envelope felt incongruous in Michael's cluttered garage. He held it up to the light, the raised lettering catching the afternoon sun. "Northwood High - 20 Year Reunion." He knew he should be excited. He'd been successful, he had everything he'd ever wanted. Yet, he didn’t feel that way.

He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous habit he’d developed over the years. The memories flooded back: the pressure, the competition, the constant need to prove himself. The garage door creaked as he slammed it shut. He felt a sudden, overwhelming urge to run.

He went inside and grabbed a beer, the icy bottle offering only a temporary distraction. The reunion. He was sure he’d go. But the thought left a lingering ache in his chest.