Gemotions

The band struck up a song, and the dance floor filled almost instantly. Chloe, who had been enjoying herself immensely, felt a sudden tightening in her chest. She saw him approaching, weaving his way through the throng of dancers. He looked relaxed, completely at ease, and utterly oblivious to the way her carefully curated composure began to unravel.

She excused herself and went to find the bathroom, suddenly needing the cold ceramic of the sink to ground herself. The pounding of the music seemed to amplify the rapid beat of her own heart. She splashed cold water on her face, but the stinging sensation did little to quell the internal turmoil.