Gemotions

The speeches were underway, and from the corner of her eye, Clara spotted Mark. He was alone, nursing a drink, looking utterly miserable. Her initial thought wasn't about the past, but something else entirely.

She went to him. His face lit up slightly when he saw her.

"Hey, Mark," she said, her tone gentle. "This cake is amazing. You should try some."

He took a bite, looking genuinely surprised. "It is," he agreed, the ghost of a smile touching his lips. He looks like he could use a friend.

"Did you know the bride?" she asked, making idle conversation. The topic felt appropriate.

"Just… through work," he mumbled, avoiding her eyes. She let the subject drop, noticing the tense set of his shoulders. She didn’t press. She just felt like being there and offering casual conversation.