Gemotions

"Oh, crap," Maya muttered under her breath, her carefully applied lipstick suddenly feeling thick and cloying. She’d thought she’d be fine. Months had passed. But seeing Ethan across the crowded hall, dressed in a tux, made her hands clam up.

She was meant to be enjoying herself. She’d spent hours getting ready, choosing the perfect dress, anticipating the celebration. Now, the music seemed too loud, the lights too bright. Every cheerful face around her felt like a taunt.

Her smile felt brittle as she greeted a passing acquaintance. She excused herself quickly, claiming a need to find the restroom. She needed a moment to recompose herself. The cool tile floor of the bathroom felt soothing against her suddenly clammy palms.