Gemotions

The doorbell chimed, a shrill, unwelcome sound that sliced through the silence of the apartment. Amelia lurched forward, heart hammering a frantic rhythm against her ribs. She’d been staring at the phone for hours, willing it to ring. This could be him. Maybe he had changed his mind. Standing in the doorway was a delivery man clutching a bouquet of crimson roses. No card. Her hands trembled as she took them, a cold dread washing over her. He'd sent flowers before, usually with a scribbled note, an apology, a promise. This time, just the blooms. The silence was deafening. She inhaled sharply, burying her face in the velvety petals, their scent momentarily overwhelming. He was gone.