Gemotions

The party was in full swing, the music blaring. Mark, feeling awkward, was trying to reach out to a new acquaintance, Emily, to thank her for the friendly conversation. His palms were slick with sweat. He tapped her name, intending to send, “It was great chatting with you!” but his clumsy fingers sent the message to his ex-girlfriend, Chloe. “I'm feeling so desperate,” it read.

He felt the blood drain from his face. His heart hammered against his ribs. He pictured Chloe’s inevitable, snide response. He wanted to disappear. He felt a burning flush creep up his neck. He quickly turned away from the party, seeking some escape, a place to hide. He needed to get away, to stop all the eyes that suddenly seemed to be on him.