Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. "Chicago," Sarah repeated, her voice flat. She was looking at Emily, her oldest friend, her partner in crime, across the table in their favorite diner. The clatter of plates, the sizzle of bacon, the chatter of the other customers – all faded into a distant background noise.

She felt a hollowness in her stomach. She reached for her water glass, her hand trembling slightly. The ice cubes clinked against the glass, a sharp, unwelcome sound. She tried to smile, but her lips felt stiff, uncooperative.

She took a long, slow sip of water, the cool liquid doing nothing to soothe the sudden dryness in her mouth. She needed to say something, but all that came out was a broken whisper.