Gemotions

The champagne flute trembled in Amelia's hand, threatening to spill its contents across the pristine white tablecloth. She’d known this day might come, but the reality still punched her in the gut. Across the room, bathed in the warm glow of the string lights, stood Daniel. He was laughing, genuinely, with someone she didn’t recognize.

Her palms began to sweat. Every muscle in her neck tensed as if she were bracing for an attack. The wedding music, once a cheerful background noise, now felt like a relentless drumming in her ears. Each beat seemed to emphasize the silent accusation she felt.

She saw him glance in her direction, his smile fading slightly. She quickly looked away, busying herself with meticulously arranging the silverware on her plate. It felt impossible to meet his gaze. She couldn’t.