Gemotions

The bustling art gallery felt like a pressure cooker, the air thick with the scent of expensive perfume and pretentious conversation. Jessica felt a persistent tremor in her hands. The exhibit opening was meant to be a celebration, but instead, she felt as if she was being slowly suffocated. She scanned the crowd, searching for Alex, her usual enthusiasm replaced with a dull ache of anticipation.

She'd told him about this event weeks ago. He'd seemed excited, promised to be there. But he was late. Again. She’d tried calling, but he wasn’t answering. The gallery's bright lights seemed to amplify her discomfort.

Suddenly, she saw him. He was standing near a sculpture, deep in conversation with another woman. She watched as he leaned in close to her, his hand briefly touching her arm. Jessica felt a wave of nausea wash over her. The woman looked up and then at Jessica. Her eyes met Jessica's, and the world seemed to tilt on its axis.