Gemotions

The wedding was in full swing, music blaring, champagne flowing. He spotted Olivia across the dance floor, laughing and surrounded by friends. He stood frozen by the bar, the knot in his stomach tightening. His hands went clammy. He should just leave, he thought, turning towards the exit. But his feet wouldn’t cooperate.

The years had been kind to her. He watched her for a long moment, the familiar feeling of being caught in a trap building in his stomach. He made his way to the dance floor, maneuvering through the throng. "Olivia?" he said, his voice barely audible above the music.

She turned, her face lit up, but not for him. "Oh, hi!" she said, her smile friendly. "I'm sorry, do I know you?" The music seemed to fade away. He felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead.