Gemotions

The photographer’s flash momentarily blinded her. She blinked, the afterimages of the light making the room feel distorted, its edges sharp. She gripped the edge of the table, her knuckles white. Each person seemed a potential threat. Her father, oblivious as ever, was laughing with a friend. She had to stay alert.

She took a deep breath, fighting the urge to flee. The speech. She had to focus. She began with a forced smile.

"For all of us," she began, pausing a beat too long, "this is a joyous occasion. Dad, you've worked hard." Her eyes darted around the room. She noticed a man in the corner, his face obscured by shadow. She made a mental note to watch him closely.