Gemotions

A hand casually adjusted the silk tie, the knot perfect. A slow, steady exhale escaped as Amelia surveyed the ballroom, now buzzing with chatter. Tonight was her mother's night, a well-deserved celebration of a long career in nursing, and Amelia had been asked to say a few words. She smiled, a genuine upturn of the lips that reached her eyes. The microphone felt comfortable in her grip.

She took a sip of water, the cool liquid refreshing against the dryness in her throat. Her father caught her eye from across the room, and he gave a small, approving nod. The corners of Amelia's mouth tilted upwards further. She was ready.