Gemotions

"Are you sure you're alright, Leo?" Maya, his date, asked, her brow furrowed with concern. "You've been fidgeting for the last hour."

He shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "Just… warm in here." The air conditioning, however, felt arctic. He smoothed down his suit jacket again, a nervous habit he'd developed.

The reception hall was buzzing with laughter and music, but all Leo could hear was his own racing heartbeat. He imagined her laughing, dancing, enjoying herself. He imagined her ignoring him completely. Either scenario filled him with an uncomfortable feeling.

He needed to get away. He excused himself, citing a sudden need for fresh air. Outside, the night was cool and clear, but his palms were still clammy. He leaned against the stone wall of the building, taking deep, gasping breaths.