Gemotions

The flickering neon sign of the bar cast long, dancing shadows across the street. Liam’s fingers, clammy, fumbled with the clasp of his messenger bag. Inside, nestled with his laptop, was a small, velvet box. He'd planned to propose tonight. Now, Sarah, standing across from him with a look of stunned disbelief etched on her face, was explaining how she’d met a "David" a few months ago.

His stomach lurched. The cheerful music from the bar seemed to be amplified, a relentless drumbeat against his temples. He could feel a cold sweat trickling down his back. Sarah’s words, sharp and clear, were slicing through the night.

He took a step back, the curb suddenly seeming perilously close. His breath hitched in his throat. He just wanted to leave, vanish. The engagement ring suddenly felt like a lead weight in the bag.