Gemotions

The floral arrangements seemed to press in on Liam. He leaned against the cool wall, the music's upbeat tempo grating on his nerves. He'd come to support Sarah, of course, but the forced joviality of the event felt utterly exhausting.

He caught sight of Maya, her long hair gleaming in the light of a nearby candelabra. A wave of exhaustion washed over him; he knew this was coming. He'd even mentally prepared himself.

She approached him, a tentative smile on her face. Liam found himself wanting to disappear, to simply melt into the wall behind him. "Liam," she greeted. His throat felt tight. "Maya," he replied, his voice barely a whisper.