Gemotions

"And now, for the cutting of the cake!" The announcer's voice boomed through the speakers. A perfect moment, ruined. Eleanor was at the edge of the dance floor when she caught sight of his familiar face—Daniel. Standing near the buffet table, loading a plate with mini quiches. He was with *her* new girlfriend.

Suddenly, the music felt too loud, the chatter too incessant. Her breath hitched. A wave of nausea rolled over her. She gripped the back of a chair, her knuckles white. She wanted to yell and cry.

He looked up, met her gaze. He gave a small, polite smile. She forced one back, feeling the muscles in her face ache. He gestured towards his plate, then her. She looked away, her cheeks burning. A tiny drop of sweat trailed down her temple.