Gemotions

"Fantastic news!" Carol chirped, her voice too bright, too chipper. Inside, a cold, desolate landscape had taken root. She saw Mark across the room, already surrounded by well-wishers, his smile wide and genuine. She wanted to scream.

She excused herself to the ladies' room, where she splashed cold water on her face, trying to cool the burning sensation behind her eyes. The tiles seemed to spin.

The reflection staring back at her was unfamiliar, a stranger with shadowed eyes and a stiff smile. She didn't stay long, but the brief glimpse was enough.