Gemotions

The string quartet’s rendition of “Canon in D” felt like a physical weight settling upon Amelia’s chest. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows of the church, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air, but she saw only the hushed smiles and the expectant faces. A tightness constricted her throat, making it difficult to swallow. She fiddled with the satin ribbon of her purse, a nervous habit she’d adopted since *he* had walked out of her life.

Then, there he was, standing near the punch bowl, a glass of champagne in hand. Liam. He looked… well, he looked handsome. Too handsome, with that devilish grin and the way his eyes crinkled at the corners. The knot in her stomach tightened further. She wanted to vanish, to dissolve into the floral wallpaper.

"Amelia? Fancy seeing you here." His voice, smooth as ever, sliced through her carefully constructed facade of composure. She managed a weak smile, her hand instinctively going to her chest, as if she could physically hold the feeling that threatened to consume her. "You too, Liam. Congratulations to the happy couple."