Gemotions

He felt a knot tighten in his stomach. The bright, cheerful decorations, the joyous atmosphere – it all seemed to mock the unease that had settled over him like a shroud. Ben kept his gaze fixed on the dance floor, hoping to avoid her. He felt a desperate need to find somewhere to hide.

He feigned interest in the conversation with his tablemates, but his mind raced. Would she be with someone? Would she avoid him? The questions swirled in his head, creating a dizzying vortex of anticipation and dread.

He excused himself to get a drink, his pace quickening as he moved towards the bar. He had to keep moving, keep busy, keep from confronting the inevitable. The champagne he ordered tasted bitter in his mouth.