The mask

Jason was, again, the star in the meeting. He made juniors feel at home and seniors reel at numbers.

It wasn’t new. Jason was the energy machine in every gathering. He’d bust awkward situations, introducing people to fun and laughter.

No one’s seen him angry or sullen. He was the funniest guy at work, the loveable friend in college, and the most helpful neighbour.

Every morning, however, before masking himself, Jason would stare at the dark liquid in his mug. As he’d drown the bitter shot, he’d also drown the bitterness of his phony life. Then get ready for work.