Gemotions

The air conditioning in the church hall felt stifling to Ben. The lights were too bright, the music was too cheerful, and Sarah, his ex, looked too… happy. She was laughing with his college friend, Mark, and the sight ignited a bitter pang in his stomach. He felt a throbbing ache behind his eyes.

He tugged at his tie, loosening it. It was too hot. He needed air, space, anything to stop the clench in his gut. He thought about leaving, just disappearing.

He found himself pacing near the exit, feigning interest in a potted plant. He ran a hand through his hair, mussing it up. The sound of happy chatter grated on him. He just wanted to go home.