Gemotions

A slow smile unfurled across Ethan's face as he surveyed the scene. The flower arrangements, the string quartet, the perfectly manicured lawn – all indicators of a life well-lived. He felt the familiar tingle of satisfaction in his veins. He had meticulously crafted his life, and here he was, thriving.

Then, there she was, tucked into a corner with a group of friends. He caught her eye, a flicker of something across her face that he couldn’t quite place. He smiled, a genuine expression that reached his eyes, and walked towards the bar, ordering a double scotch. He knew how to play this game.