Gemotions

He hadn't expected to see her. The surprise hit him with the force of a physical blow. He forced a smile, but his jaw felt locked. There she was, talking to a table of friends, looking relaxed and happy.

He felt an impulse to walk away, to disappear. Instead, he found himself lingering at the bar, nursing a drink, pretending to be absorbed in the music. Each time she laughed, he felt a sharp, unwelcome pang.

He felt a deep sense of frustration. Each interaction felt like a slow burn, and he found himself feeling increasingly irritable. He finally gave up, and made his way towards the exit, and into the cool night air.