Gemotions

The champagne flute felt heavy in Elias’s hand, the bubbles doing nothing to lighten his mood. He watched the happy couple on the dance floor, their laughter echoing through the brightly lit reception hall. A pang of something akin to jealousy tightened his chest. He took a long swallow, the metallic taste doing nothing to soothe the tension. He shifted his weight, his freshly pressed suit feeling like a suffocating second skin. He had wanted to go home, but the thought of the empty apartment was even less appealing.

He scanned the crowd, seeking a friendly face, a distraction. Then, he saw her. Across the room, bathed in the warm glow of the fairy lights, was Amelia. His stomach clenched. She looked radiant, talking animatedly with a group of people. He debated whether to disappear into the throng, or brave a quick hello.

He decided on the latter, forcing a smile that felt brittle. As he approached, he felt a knot form in his throat.