Gemotions

The caterer's call was a mistake. "So looking forward to your speech, darling!" the effusive woman had chirped. Now, the memory of her words echoed in Chloe’s mind, each syllable a tiny hammer blow. The pressure in her chest was so intense she felt she couldn’t breathe.

She avoided looking at her reflection. She knew the eyes would be wild, the face pale. The thought of being the center of attention, even for a few minutes, was a torment she couldn't fully comprehend.

She busied herself with rearranging the furniture, anything to distract herself. Every tick of the clock was a reminder of the inevitable.