Gemotions

The air in the reception hall felt thick, almost suffocating. Ben pushed at his collar, feeling a familiar heat creeping up his neck. He watched, with a growing sense of irritation, as Sophie made her way toward him, a playful smile on her face. This was just great.

He’d imagined this scenario, of course. They'd shared too many mutual acquaintances for him to believe he'd escape a run-in entirely. He just hadn't anticipated the *level* of awkwardness. He forced a smile, a shallow and unconvincing mask.

He wished he had chosen a different tie, a different suit, a different everything. He wished he were anywhere else.