It's quietly destroying social lives.
You're at a family dinner.
Sitting at the table.
Everyone's talking. Laughing. Enjoying the meal.
Someone asks you a question.
You open your mouth to answer.
But nothing comes out right.
Your voice is raspy. Strained. The words get stuck.
You stop.
You know you have to clear your throat.
You know everyone will hear.
But you can't help it.
You clear your throat.
Once. Twice. Three times.
The whole table goes quiet.
You see everyone tense up.
No one makes eye contact.
Someone pushes their plate back slightly.
Someone else covers their mouth.
They think it's disgusting.
You excuse yourself to the bathroom.