Gemotions

Eliza hummed a cheerful tune as she hurried to the restaurant, her new dress swishing around her ankles. The aroma of garlic and oregano tickled her nose, making her even more eager. Tonight, she’d be introducing Mark to her best friend, Chloe. It was the next step, the big step. She pictured Chloe’s approval, the easy conversation, the shared future that seemed to draw closer with every passing moment. Her palms were damp, and she kept smoothing the fabric of the dress, her pulse quickening with anticipation.

She spotted Mark standing outside, looking handsome in a tailored suit, and ran towards him. He turned, a look of bewilderment on his face.

“Eliza?” he said, his voice hesitant. "What are you doing here?"

“I wanted to surprise you!” she replied, her voice buoyant. "Chloe’s inside, ready to meet you!"

A woman emerged from the restaurant, her face a mask of shock. “Mark, what is going on?” she asked, her voice shaking.

Eliza’s smile faltered.