Gemotions

The champagne flute in Amelia's hand practically vibrated. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows of the church, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air, mirroring the lightness in her chest. She laughed easily, a bright, melodic sound that carried across the courtyard as she greeted another wedding guest. This was it – the day she'd been waiting for. The day she’d finally be free of the dark, heavy clouds that used to hang over her.

She spotted him then, across the manicured lawn. Liam. He was talking to Sarah, the bride's cousin, looking effortlessly handsome in his tailored suit. Amelia felt a tiny flutter, a mischievous spark of something akin to glee, and she lifted her chin, taking another delicate sip of champagne.

"Oh, look who it is!" she exclaimed to a nearby friend, her voice a touch too loud, a bit too bright. She linked arms with her friend and practically skipped towards Liam, her silk dress swaying with each step.