Gemotions

“Oh, *great*,” I muttered under my breath. There she was. Chloe. Looking radiant, of course, like she hadn't just shattered my heart into a million tiny pieces. I took a deliberate step back, as if she were carrying some kind of contagious disease.

The best man, her friend, approached me, and I was forced to engage in pleasantries. The forced smile felt like a physical strain. I nodded, mumbled a few responses, trying not to make eye contact with her. The music shifted, some cheesy love song. I wanted to scream.

Suddenly, I made a beeline for the bathroom. I leaned against the cool tile, just needing a moment to collect myself. I splashed water on my face, the reflection in the mirror offering little comfort.