Gemotions

The ballroom seemed to shrink, the chatter of the other guests fading into a dull roar. His eyes met hers across the crowded dance floor, and a wave of heat washed over Thomas. He quickly looked away, feigning interest in the centerpiece on the table. He fiddled with the silverware, rearranging the knife and fork a dozen times.

He'd rehearsed what he would say, the casual greeting, the friendly smile. But now, all the carefully crafted words evaporated from his mind. He focused on the patterns in the tablecloth, trying to regain some semblance of control. His hands were clammy. He wished he'd chosen a different tie.