Gemotions

The cafe was buzzing with the Saturday brunch crowd, but Sarah barely noticed. Her focus was entirely on the man across the tiny table from her, the way the sunlight caught the flecks of gold in his eyes. He laughed at something she'd said, a deep, rumbling sound that seemed to vibrate through the thin wood of the table and into her own chest. Her fingers, usually restless, lay still, tracing the rim of her coffee cup. A warmth spread through her, a gentle heat that made her skin tingle.

He reached across the table, his hand brushing against hers as he gestured emphatically. Sarah's breath hitched. She found herself watching his lips, imagining the way they would feel pressed against hers. The scent of his cologne, a subtle blend of spice and something clean, filled her senses.

"So, yeah," he was saying, "That's why I had to reschedule our hike." The word "our" hung in the air, a tiny, perfect hook that snagged something deep inside her. A flush crept up her neck, and she had to look away to hide the sudden, silly smile that threatened to overwhelm her.