Gemotions

The champagne flute felt slick in Amelia's hand. She gripped it tighter as she spotted David, her ex, across the crowded dance floor. He was laughing, head thrown back, a charming display she’d once adored. Now, it just irked her. She tilted her head up, a deliberate act of defiance. He wasn't going to ruin this for her. Not today.

She deliberately turned away, making a beeline for the bar, even though she had just gotten a refill. The bartender, sensing her mood, didn’t even bother to ask what she wanted, simply pouring her another glass of bubbly. Amelia took a long, slow sip, the bubbles tickling her nose, a small act of self-soothing amidst the rising tide of… something.

She ignored the gentle prodding of her friend, Sarah, who kept trying to draw her into a conversation. Amelia just smiled tightly, the edges of her lips barely moving, and stared resolutely at the swirling ice in her glass. When Sarah finally gave up and wandered off, Amelia let out a small, almost imperceptible sigh.