Gemotions

The late afternoon sun warmed Amelia's face as she waited outside the coffee shop. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the maple tree overhead. She tapped her foot lightly, a small, rhythmic movement that had the effect of keeping her grounded. Her friend, Ben, was running late, as usual. It was only five minutes past the agreed time, though, so she wasn't concerned. He had been unusually stressed lately, talking constantly about deadlines and demanding clients. She took a slow sip of her iced latte.

Amelia’s eyes followed the meandering path of a ladybug across the nearby flowerbed. She’d known Ben since kindergarten, and this new job he’d been boasting about, the one with the high-powered consulting firm, seemed to be taking a toll. She wondered if he was finally going to admit that he wasn't enjoying it.

A wave of relaxation washed over her as she noticed him approaching, his usual messy hair slightly more disheveled than normal. He was wearing a slightly rumpled suit that was a poor fit. She smiled, ready to gently tease him about his tardiness.