Gemotions

The bookstore felt cozy, the scent of aged paper and leather a familiar comfort. Liam was browsing the poetry section, easily losing himself in the rhythm of the verses. He’d found a book of sonnets he knew Maya, his new girlfriend, would adore. He felt a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing her so intimately.

He glanced up and saw her chatting with a man across the aisle. They were laughing. The man was holding a copy of the same book he had just selected. As he got closer, he noticed the small, hand-drawn bookmark sticking out. It was a cartoon drawing he had made for Maya during a particularly boring work meeting.

Maya saw him and her face went pale. The man turned, his eyes widened, and he seemed to choke on his own spit.