Gemotions

The invitation sat heavy in Leo’s hand, the glossy card mocking him with its festive script. He'd been looking forward to this for weeks, clinging to the promise of laughter and connection. Now, a terse text message informed him the party was off. His stomach clenched, a knot tightening in his gut. He reread the message, his eyes darting back and forth across the screen like trapped insects. He absently scratched at his arm, the skin prickling with an unfamiliar sensitivity. Should he reply? What could he even say? He let out a shaky breath, the air feeling thin and insufficient. The apartment suddenly seemed too quiet, the silence amplifying the thrumming in his temples.