Gemotions

The silk of Leo's tie felt like a noose, but he wouldn't loosen it. He’d be damned if he'd let the heat of the room bother him. He'd find a way to enjoy himself. Then he saw Chloe, laughing and gesturing with a glass of wine to a group of friends. His own laughter was a cold, hard sound.

He adjusted his jacket and began a slow, deliberate circuit of the dance floor, ignoring his racing heart. He caught Chloe's eye, held it for a beat too long, and then turned away. He needed to be seen. He needed her to know that he was fine, maybe even better. That everything was exactly as it should be.

He found the best man, slapped him on the back, and requested the most upbeat, dance-heavy song. The music began. He put on a show for the wedding guests, but mostly for her. The pounding rhythm drowned out the thoughts he’d rather not think.