Gemotions

The room was already buzzing when Michael arrived. He’d barely made it through the ceremony, a tight knot forming in his stomach. He wasn’t prepared for the wave of anger that hit him when he saw her.

He avoided the hors d'oeuvres, the cheerful chatter, and the happy couples. He felt a sharp jab of something like indignation when she greeted him warmly. It was just a little too perfect.

He’d imagined a scenario for this event a thousand times, and none of them resembled this. He needed to get away, to escape the suffocating atmosphere of forced happiness. He excused himself, citing a sudden need for fresh air, and left.