Gemotions

The terminal hummed, a monotonous drone that matched the ache in Elara's chest. She slumped deeper into the uncomfortable plastic chair, her gaze fixed on the departure board. "Delayed." The word mocked her, a neon insult flashing alongside the flight number that was supposed to carry her to her sister's wedding. She’d meticulously chosen the dress, the perfect shade of seafoam green, and now, it sat forgotten in her suitcase. Her throat tightened, a physical manifestation of the crushing disappointment.

She hadn’t told anyone yet, not even her sister. The thought of the phone call, the inevitable let-down she'd inflict, was paralyzing. She felt a profound weight, like a physical pressure pressing down on her shoulders. Her fingernails dug into the palms of her hands.