Gemotions

The champagne flute trembled in Amelia’s hand, the bubbles doing a nervous dance against the glass. The air in the ballroom felt thick, suffocating. She’d known this was a possibility, seeing as Liam and Sarah, the bride, shared a close circle, but still, the sight of him across the crowded room hit her like a physical blow. He was laughing, genuinely, with someone she didn’t recognize.

Her chest felt constricted. Each breath was a conscious effort. She found herself clutching the silk of her dress, the fabric offering little comfort. The upbeat music seemed to mock her, a jaunty soundtrack to a tragedy only she could hear.

“Everything alright, love?” asked her friend, Emily, her brow furrowed. Amelia forced a smile, a shaky imitation of happiness.

"Absolutely," she managed, her voice barely a whisper. She took a large gulp of the champagne, the cold liquid doing nothing to soothe the sudden heat rising in her cheeks.