Gemotions

The band’s upbeat music grated on her nerves. Every happy couple, dancing and laughing, was another knife twist. She had to remind herself to breathe, to appear as though everything was fine.

She caught his eye. He looked away, which added fuel to the fire. Her carefully constructed facade threatened to crumble. Her breath caught in her throat.

She retreated to the restroom, the cool tiles a small comfort. She splashed cold water on her face, trying to wash away the feeling of utter defeat. Looking at her reflection, she barely recognized the woman staring back.