Gemotions

The ballroom seemed to spin. Clara felt the air leave her lungs the instant she saw him. Her breath hitched. The carefully applied lipstick suddenly felt thick and cloying. He was across the room, talking animatedly with a group of people, looking handsome, happier than she had seen him in years.

She had rehearsed scenarios, what she would say, how she would react, but now they all seemed impossible. Her legs felt like jelly. She clutched her clutch bag as if it were a lifeline.

The music changed to a slow dance, and as couples took to the floor, Clara noticed him looking in her direction, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips. She quickly turned away, feigning interest in the centerpiece. The floral arrangements suddenly became the most fascinating thing in the world.