Gemotions

The small, cluttered coffee shop seemed to shrink with each shared revelation. John, and then Sarah, discovered the uncomfortable truth. They'd both been charmed, and lied to, by the same man, named Alex.

Sarah, her voice cracking, spoke of future plans, of a shared dream. John knew those dreams. He'd heard them, too. He felt the familiar anger, but it was eclipsed by the sight of Sarah's shoulders shaking, her eyes brimming with tears.

John reached across the small table, placing his hand over hers. "Hey," he began, his voice surprisingly gentle. "We can get through this, together." The simple phrase felt like a lifeline. He squeezed her hand, offering a silent pledge.