Gemotions

He felt a prickling sensation on the back of his neck. David, the groom, had asked him to be a groomsman, and here he was, about to see her. It felt as if a cold hand had reached into his chest and squeezed. He shifted his weight, trying to find a comfortable position, a futile exercise.

He avoided looking in her direction. He focused on the wedding cake, the intricate details of the sugar flowers. He could almost feel her gaze, even though he knew he couldn't see it. He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture he hadn't done in years.

He heard her laugh. It was a clear, ringing sound that cut through the happy chatter. He stared at his shoes. His mouth felt dry, and he wished he could disappear.