Gemotions

“You enjoying yourself?” a guest inquired, attempting friendly small talk. “Spectacular,” he deadpanned, the sarcasm dripping from his voice. He avoided eye contact. He saw her then.

The familiar knot formed in his stomach. His gaze lingered for too long before he forced himself to look away. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to flee. He had to escape, to get some space. He found a secluded patio, smoking a cigarette, the nicotine doing little to calm his nerves.

The setting sun cast long, melancholic shadows across the grounds. He flicked the ash of his cigarette, watching it fall onto the manicured lawn. He wondered if she noticed he was gone.