Gemotions

The photographer caught her eye, signaling for the obligatory group shots. She plastered on a smile, a mask she'd perfected over years of social gatherings. Inside, a familiar emptiness echoed. Standing beside Daniel, pretending to be as invested in the proceedings as he was, felt like a betrayal of sorts.

Her gaze drifted, and there she was, standing on the other side of the courtyard. The way her face lit up when she saw him. He was speaking to someone, his jaw set in a way that she recognized. He had a way of always making her feel like a problem.

The wind rustled the leaves of the ancient oak tree, a mournful whisper. She excused herself, muttering something about the bathroom, and slipped away, unable to bear the pretense any longer. The air was heavy, thick with memories.