Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled Amelia's tiny apartment, a welcome scent after a grueling week. She hummed a tuneless melody as she arranged a small bouquet of wildflowers on the kitchen table, their vibrant colors a cheerful contrast to the morning sunlight streaming through the window. Tonight, she was preparing a special dinner for David, a man whose smile could instantly lift her spirits. A warm flush crept up her neck as she imagined his arrival.

The doorbell chimed, and a grin split her face. "Coming!" she called out, smoothing down her skirt. When she opened the door, a woman stood there, holding a casserole dish. "Oh, hi," Amelia said, taken aback. "Can I help you?"

"I think so," the woman replied, her voice tight. "I'm Sarah. I was supposed to be having dinner here tonight." Amelia's smile faltered, the sunshine in the kitchen suddenly dimmed.