Gemotions

The champagne flute nearly slipped from Clara's grasp as she saw him. *Of all the weddings*, she thought, her breath catching in her throat. Across the throng of well-wishers, there was Liam, looking as infuriatingly handsome as ever. He was chatting animatedly with Sarah, their mutual friend, and a smile played on his lips. *He has no right to look so relaxed.*

Clara quickly took a long gulp of her champagne, the bubbles doing little to soothe the sudden heat in her cheeks. She felt a prickling sensation at the back of her neck. She avoided eye contact and began to move in the opposite direction, attempting a nonchalant stroll towards the buffet table. Her steps felt stiff, her jaw clenched.

She eyed the buffet, suddenly feeling ravenous, but found herself unable to eat. Each time Liam’s laughter reached her ears, she felt a fresh surge of annoyance. She began to replay all their past arguments, each petty slight, each betrayal.