Gemotions

"Are you sure you're feeling up to this?" David's sister asked, her brow furrowed with concern. He knew he looked awful. He hadn't slept properly in days, and his skin had lost all its color. He was hosting a poker tournament. On the same day, Mark was putting on a comedy show.

He plastered a smile on his face. "Of course! Wouldn't miss it." The words felt hollow even to his own ears. His head throbbed, a dull ache that seemed to emanate from the very core of his being.

He had spent weeks preparing, organizing the tournament, buying the chips, and advertising it to his friends. Now, the thought of dealing cards and making small talk felt like an impossible task. He dragged himself to the kitchen to make some coffee, the aroma offering him little respite.