Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the wedding decorations seemed to bleed together before her eyes. She caught sight of him, standing near the bar, talking casually to a few mutual acquaintances. A knot formed in her stomach, tightening with each passing second.

She forced herself to take a deep breath, trying to regain control. Her hands felt clammy, her heart hammered against her ribs. She was suddenly acutely aware of every detail of the room: the bright lights, the swirling patterns on the dance floor, the perfume of the other guests.

She busied herself with rearranging a napkin, her movements jerky and unnatural. She wanted to disappear, to dissolve into the background. The familiar faces of her friends offered no solace, no comfort. She felt alone, adrift.