Gemotions

The concert hall buzzed with anticipation. Claire gripped the railing of the balcony, her knuckles white. She had spent the last hour meticulously applying her makeup, choosing the perfect dress, everything designed to make a good impression. She caught sight of him, a flash of dark hair and a familiar smile, heading towards her. Her heart leaped. Then, he stopped, and his attention was captured by another woman.

Claire's vision tunneled. She felt a cold sweat break out across her forehead. The other woman, who was also waiting, clearly recognized him. She felt a wave of dizziness. The music began, but the notes sounded distant, muffled. The world tilted on its axis as the woman, also expecting a date, approached, a look of confused outrage on her face.