Gemotions

The vibrant music from the rooftop party seemed distant, muted. I’d been having a wonderful time with Ben, laughing, dancing, feeling utterly at ease. Then, a woman, her face a mask of false friendliness, approached us. “Oh, Ben, darling! I didn’t know you were here!” Her words were a jolt. Ben’s smile faltered, his eyes darting between me and the interloper. My stomach clenched. I felt a sudden need to flee, to disappear into the night. My legs felt heavy, as if made of lead. The party, only moments before a source of joy, now felt like a cage.