Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, yet it did nothing to lift Chris's mood. He sat at a small table in the cafe, his gaze fixed on the bustling street outside. This date, arranged by a mutual acquaintance, felt like a chore. He was waiting for Lisa, and she was late. He had texted her.

He fiddled with a sugar packet, tearing it open and then discarding it without use. He felt restless, a strange kind of emptiness blooming inside him. The chatter around him, the clatter of cups – everything grated on his nerves.

Finally, Lisa arrived, her smile apologetic, her excuses ready. She began to recount a story about a family issue. He found himself focusing on her movements, and the way she held herself. He wanted to go home.

Hours later, he bumped into another guy, and it turns out they both knew Lisa. They compared notes. It was the same story, all the same details.