Gemotions

The sound of Claire's voice, usually a source of comfort, now grated on Liam's ears. She was recounting the "thrilling challenges" of her job as a "financial analyst," a role that, according to her, involved jet-setting and complex negotiations. Liam knew Claire was a waitress at the local diner.

He leaned back in his chair, the flimsy plastic creaking beneath him. He focused on the flickering neon sign outside the diner window, anything to avoid meeting her eyes.

"And then, the client said..." Claire continued, her voice full of false enthusiasm. Liam took a deep breath, the stale air of the diner suddenly feeling heavy and suffocating. He wished he could just disappear.