Gemotions

The microphone felt heavy in Elias’s hand, a perfect match for the knot of resentment tightening his stomach. He gazed at his father, beaming under the celebratory lights, and a slow smile stretched across his face, not quite reaching his eyes. He’d rehearsed this speech a dozen times, each version subtly, deliciously different.

He began with the prescribed platitudes about hard work and dedication. But as he spoke, his voice took on a deliberate, saccharine tone, dripping with false admiration. He emphasized the long hours his father had spent, the promotions he’d received, the way he’d always put the company first.

He saw his sister glance at him, a flicker of worry in her eyes. He ignored it. He was now regaling everyone with a story about a crucial project his father had almost tanked due to a mistake he made. Elias paused, savoring the hushed silence.

"But, Dad, as always, pulled it out of the bag," he finished, voice cheerful. He could almost hear the gears of thought turning in his father's head. The old man looked confused.