Gemotions

The scent of flowers and perfume filled the air, but Claire barely noticed. Her mind was fixed on the words she had prepared, on the story she had to tell. She kept looking towards the stage, her every muscle tingling with anticipation. It was her mother's retirement party.

She’d spent the last week refining her speech. Every word chosen with precision. Every pause carefully considered. She hoped it would be memorable.

When her name was announced, she sprang from her seat. She practically flew to the podium. "Hello everyone!" she called out, her voice filled with a happiness that bubbled from within her.