Gemotions

Clara felt a knot tighten in her stomach when she saw Mark across the room, talking to the bride’s aunt. She forced herself to take a deep breath, and straightened her back. She’d spent weeks preparing for this night. She would not let him ruin it.

She marched over to the most gregarious group of guests. She wanted to make a statement. She engaged in a lively conversation, punctuated by loud laughter and a dramatic wave of her hand. She talked over other people, she even monopolized the conversation, all for show. The more she talked, the more confident she felt.

She saw him glance in her direction, his expression unreadable. She turned, gave a radiant smile, and raised her glass in a toast to nothing in particular. He wouldn’t know.