Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the cafe, mirroring the tempest brewing inside Mark. He glared at the drizzle, the world outside appearing bleak and unwelcome. Waiting for Sarah, the thought of her latest career tale churned his stomach.

Sarah had, for years, regaled him with stories of her glamorous life as a fashion photographer, traveling the world. Now, he knew, thanks to a chance encounter at the library, that her reality involved managing a small bookstore. A bookstore! He crossed his arms, the knot in his stomach tightening further.

His shoulders slumped as the cafe door chimed. There she was, all smiles and sparkling eyes. He forced a smile back, the action feeling brittle and weak. He knew it was going to be a long conversation.