Gemotions

The clinking of silverware and the buzz of conversation were a distant hum. Michael’s ears were ringing. He hadn't prepared for this. He'd thought he was over it. He’d told himself he was. But seeing Chloe walk in, arm in arm with a new guy, the one he knew nothing about, sent a jolt of ice through his veins.

His chest felt constricted. He excused himself from the conversation he was having, muttering something about needing to grab another drink. He didn’t. He just needed to be away from the happy couple.

He found himself outside, leaning against the cool brick of the building, the night air offering a small measure of comfort. He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture a futile attempt to make sense of the tangled emotions churning inside him.