Gemotions

A bead of sweat trickled down David's temple. He adjusted his tie for the tenth time in as many minutes, each movement feeling clumsy and exaggerated. The dance floor throbbed with music, a beat that seemed to mirror the frantic rhythm in his chest. He scanned the room, each face a potential landmine.

Suddenly, their eyes met. Emily. Her gaze, once filled with warmth, was now neutral. A wave of heat washed over him, making his face flush. He automatically reached for his water glass, emptying it in a single gulp.

He mumbled something to the person beside him, a polite evasion, and excused himself, retreating towards the bar. He felt a sudden, desperate urge to flee the reception hall entirely. He needed air.