Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled Amelia's kitchen. She took another, unnecessary bite, savoring the crusty exterior and soft interior. Her date, David, was meticulously setting the table, placing the silverware with a precision that bordered on obsessive. Amelia found it irritating. She wanted the bread all to herself, the butter melting in a puddle of golden deliciousness, the entire loaf a symbol of her exclusive possession.

"You know," David said, his voice a smooth balm, "Sarah makes the most incredible bread pudding."

Amelia's hand stilled mid-reach. "Sarah?"

David beamed. "Yeah, she's amazing. We went to that cooking class together last week. She's really talented." He glanced at his phone, a small furrow appearing between his brows. "Actually, I need to call her. She's expecting a call."

Amelia felt a cold wave wash over her. The bread suddenly tasted like ash.