Gemotions

He leaned against the wall, observing the party's cheerful frenzy. The sounds of laughter and music blended into a dull roar in his ears. He gripped the edge of the table, as if to anchor himself in place.

Work had been relentless, and his personal life had been a series of disappointments. He felt a dull ache behind his eyes, a familiar pain that had become a constant companion. The speech was an onerous task.

He watched the people with their smiles and knew he would need to put on a show. The effort required to be happy for even a few minutes seemed immense. He just wanted it all to be over.