Gemotions

The clinking of silverware, the murmur of conversations, the faint scent of lilies – it was all designed to be soothing. It wasn't. The moment she'd seen him, everything had felt… off-kilter. She found herself scanning the room, as if searching for an escape route.

He was talking to the groom, a broad smile on his face. He seemed… well. Good. Fine. That surprised her. She'd expected anger, resentment, something. He looked entirely comfortable, and that, more than anything, threw her.

She excused herself from the table, claiming a need for fresh air. Outside, she leaned against a wall, breathing deeply. The sky was darkening, and the first stars were beginning to appear. The weight of the moment felt heavy, but she couldn’t name its source.