Gemotions

The ballroom seemed to shrink, the ornate decorations closing in on Emily. She felt a creeping sense of unease. She had thought about this moment for weeks, but now, faced with the reality, all her carefully crafted anecdotes had vanished from her mind.

The air felt thick, heavy. She tried to take a deep breath, but her lungs felt constricted. Her stomach churned. She clutched at the folds of her dress, her fingers digging in, and she had to be careful not to tear the fabric.

She was surprised at how many people were watching her. She'd always loved the spotlight, hadn't she? Now, she wished the floor would open up and swallow her whole.