Gemotions

Michael clapped his friend on the back and then moved into the buffet line. He scanned the room, the familiar faces blurring together. And then he saw her. Sarah. He almost didn't recognize her at first. The years had been kind. She laughed at something a bridesmaid said, and her face lit up. It was a genuine, unaffected laugh.

He found himself selecting a mini quiche, then another. He wasn't hungry, he realized; the food was an excuse to delay the inevitable. He walked towards the bar instead, ordering a club soda with lime.

The wedding photographer snapped a photo, catching Sarah's eye. She smiled, a genuine, warm smile, and waved. Michael returned it, a smile of his own gracing his features. The soft glow of the fairy lights seemed to emphasize a feeling of peace washing over him. He felt a calmness he hadn't known he needed. It was nice to witness a life move on and be okay.