Gemotions

She adjusted the microphone stand, a small smile playing on her lips. She felt a kind of… fizz. Her hands tingled. The ballroom glittered, reflecting the chandeliers above, and she took a deep breath. Her mother, usually so reserved, was practically vibrating with happiness. Perfect.

“Mom, Dad,” she began, her voice bubbling with a lightness that surprised even her. She wanted to launch into a dance. She felt compelled to make the speech special. The script she'd prepared was useless, she thought, and then she didn't bother to refer to it.

The words tumbled out, full of playful anecdotes and affectionate teasing. She regaled the crowd with stories of their family, her voice never wavering as the laughter and applause filled the room. She felt as though she could fly. She spoke quickly, her eyes darting from face to face, wanting to include everyone.

Later, she found herself practically jogging back to her seat, feeling light and buoyant. She felt alive.