Gemotions

He was here. That simple fact echoed in Michael’s mind, a repeated, insistent pulse against the background of the wedding festivities. He saw her, across the reception hall, laughing with someone, her hair shimmering under the lights. A strange sensation, a tightening, bloomed in his chest. His hand reflexively went to his tie, loosening it slightly.

He couldn't place the emotion, the sudden… dissonance. He’d thought he was over it. He’d told himself that. He’d even genuinely believed it. Yet, here he was, suddenly acutely aware of every footstep, every laugh, every passing comment.

He found himself wandering towards the bar, ordering a double scotch. The amber liquid burned going down, but it did little to soothe the internal… disturbance. The image of her, vibrant and seemingly carefree, swam before his eyes. He felt a deep, unsettling disorientation.