Gemotions

The drive to the event was a blur. He’d barely slept the night before, his mind racing with worries and anxieties. Now, the highway stretched before him, an endless gray ribbon. He rested his head against the headrest, trying to draw strength from the leather.

The party itself was a sensory overload – the flashing lights, the loud music, the constant chatter. He felt overwhelmed, as if someone was trying to draw him from all sides. He felt his head spinning slightly.

He was expected to make a toast. He wanted to decline. But it was impossible. He knew he had to gather all his dwindling reserves and at least get through the motions. He felt dread, but he pushed it away and took a deep breath.