Gemotions

The clinking of glasses and the chattering of guests faded into a background buzz as he approached. Charles’s shoulders stiffened. He hadn't expected to see Sarah, not tonight. He knew they’d run into each other eventually, but the thought hadn't quite prepared him for the actual encounter.

He subtly shifted his weight, trying to appear nonchalant. But his heart hammered against his ribs like a trapped bird. He needed to avoid her, or at least keep the interaction as brief as humanly possible. He hoped she wouldn’t try to talk about *it*.

He gave a forced smile and a curt nod, praying the evening would end soon.