Gemotions

The dance floor was packed, the music a relentless beat that thrummed through Clara's chest. She knew he was probably watching her from across the room. He always had, that damn, knowing look in his eyes. She wasn’t going to give him the satisfaction of seeing her falter.

She moved with fierce energy, her limbs flailing to the rhythm of the song. Each step was a defiance, a silent scream of "I'm fine!" that she hoped he could hear over the music. She was not going to slow down, not going to seek him out, not going to make eye contact.

Sweat slicked her forehead, and a smile plastered itself on her face, a brittle thing that didn't reach her eyes. She grabbed another glass of wine and downed it in one go. She would outlast him.