Gemotions

The scent of gardenias and honeysuckle hung thick in the warm evening air. Clara leaned against the weathered wooden fence, watching the happy couple sway on the dance floor. The fairy lights overhead twinkled like fallen stars. This wedding, a celebration of new love, felt slightly jarring. She was happy for the couple, of course.

Then she caught sight of Ethan, leaning against a nearby oak tree. He was talking to someone, his face illuminated by the soft glow of a nearby lantern. She remembered how they used to sit under that very tree, sharing secrets and dreams. A sense of yearning welled up in her, and she hugged herself, feeling suddenly chilled.

The music shifted to a slow song, and she could almost feel his hand reaching for hers. She quickly ducked behind a large hydrangea bush. A gentle reminder of what once was.