Gemotions

From the high-backed booth in the dim restaurant, Sarah watched Ethan approach. He was tall, just as she remembered, and carried himself with a quiet confidence that stirred something uncomfortable in her. She'd arranged this meeting, a desperate attempt to bridge the chasm that had opened between them. But now, as he drew closer, she felt a burning sensation in her cheeks.

Her hands, folded in her lap, were clammy. She took a fortifying sip of water, the cold liquid doing little to soothe the rising heat. He stopped in front of her, his expression curious. He paused for a moment before he said, "Are you waiting for someone?"

Sarah swallowed hard. "Ethan? It's me, Sarah." Her voice trembled slightly. His face registered nothing.

He looked around the restaurant, then back at her. A polite smile. “I’m sorry, I don’t think we’ve met.” It was like a physical jolt. She felt the blood drain from her face.