Gemotions

The cafe buzzed with the afternoon rush, but Amelia barely noticed. Her grin was so wide, it felt like her cheeks might crack. Across the small, round table, Liam, with his kind eyes and easy laugh, was telling a story about a misadventure involving a runaway dog and a very muddy park. Amelia found herself practically vibrating with joy, her fingers drumming a happy rhythm against the tabletop. This was it, the real deal. She felt a lightness, a buoyant feeling, like she could float away right there amongst the clinking cups and chattering voices. "That's hilarious!" she exclaimed, her voice a little too loud, unable to contain the glee that bubbled up inside.

The waiter brought their coffee, and Liam leaned in, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. He reached across the table and touched her hand. Electricity, a powerful current, shot through her.

Then, a woman approached their table. Amelia didn't recognize her.

"Liam, darling!" the woman said, her voice laced with surprise and a certain proprietary air. "What are *you* doing here?" Her smile seemed forced, but Amelia didn't care.

"Oh," Liam said, his face paling slightly. "Sarah, this is... Amelia."

Amelia's world tilted.