Gemotions

The concert hall vibrated with anticipation. Clara tapped her foot to the pre-show music, a light thrill coursing through her. She was finally fulfilling a long-held dream. The music, the atmosphere, everything was perfect. She felt a lightness in her chest she hadn't known in years.

Then, she saw him. Mark. He was standing near the bar, ordering a drink. She’d always admired his passion for music, how his eyes would light up when he talked about his favorite bands.

He walked past her seat, never even glancing her way. He was humming along to the music, lost in thought. A wave of disorientation washed over her. It was as if she'd been plunged into a cold, dark pool, the air suddenly thin and hard to breathe.