Gemotions

The email sat in Leo’s inbox, a stark white rectangle against the muted gray background. He hadn't opened it yet. His hand, trembling slightly, hovered over the mouse. He knew what it contained: the announcement. Sarah was moving. To California. He stared at the screen, the fluorescent light of his kitchen making his teeth ache. He took a shaky breath, then quickly clicked the icon, bracing for impact.

The message was brief, a polite summary of her plans. He felt a cold prickle, like ice water running down his spine. His vision blurred, and he blinked hard, trying to keep the tears at bay. He pictured their usual Saturday morning routine: coffee at the diner, followed by a walk in the park. Gone.

He felt the sudden urge to flee, to disappear. He needed to be away from the mundane reality of the kitchen, from the digital proof of her departure. He stood, knocking over his chair in the process, and fled the room, heading straight for the front door.