Gemotions

The band struck up a slow dance, and Clara wished the floor would open up and swallow her whole. There he was, Ethan, dancing with someone else. A woman with a confident sway and a radiant smile.

Clara felt a wave of cold wash over her, numbing her limbs. She clutched her clutch bag as if it were a lifeline. She felt a burning in her cheeks. Everything felt too bright, too loud.

She didn't know how to move, how to act. She tried to catch her breath, but it felt as if a heavy weight was compressing her chest. She excused herself from the conversation she was engaged in, murmuring something about needing fresh air, and fled outside.