Gemotions

The weight of the situation pressed down on Liam, a physical ache in his shoulders. He stared at the two identical architectural models, one of his own creation, the other belonging to Chloe. Both were designed for the same low-income housing project, mirroring each other in every detail, even the placement of the rooftop gardens.

He watched Chloe, her face ashen, her fingers tracing the contours of the tiny buildings. He could see the years of dedication reflected in her expression, and the current sense of deflation. She looked like she might shatter.

"Chloe," he began softly, his voice barely audible above the hum of the office air conditioner, "this isn’t fair to you." He felt a pang of something akin to grief, seeing her in such despair.

She looked up, her eyes glistening. He realized then that she was close to tears. He quickly sought words of comfort. "Maybe…maybe we could try to figure out how to work together from here." His offer was spontaneous, a desperate attempt to ameliorate the situation.