Gemotions

The museum's quiet halls were a stark contrast to the turmoil within her. Emily wandered aimlessly through the exhibits, the art failing to capture her attention. She ran a hand across a marble statue, a gesture of longing for something that wasn't here. This date, with Michael, was proving to be a tedious affair. He was late. Again. She’d made it clear she didn’t want to see him that evening.

She leaned against a wall, watching other people and their couples, and their happy demeanors. She felt the weight of her own situation pressing down on her.

He arrived eventually, with an excuse that was too familiar. He began to talk about a recent business deal, his voice animated, his gestures theatrical. She zoned out.

She later encountered a woman, clearly flustered. They'd both received identical stories.