#networking event?

index finger dug into the tight collar of his dress shirt, frustrated pull at the fabric attempting to leave him room to breathe. it seemed like the world was testing him, from needing to shake hands with countless of figures whose surnames bore noteworthy reputations, to the overbearing glances of his parents that burned on his skin with his every move. they monitored his manners, his posture, occasionally his mother would even lay a faint hand on his shoulder on her route to retrieve another glass of champagne to remember him to smile more. as if that was not enough, familiar figure strolled into his sights.   “ to what do i owe the pleasure? ”   he smiled through gritted teeth as the other came close enough to hear, attempting to keep the conversation civil. at least to outside eyes.