Gemotions

The cafe smelled of burnt coffee, a scent that already grated on Amelia’s nerves. She saw him across the room, the stupid grin plastered on his face from the video chats, and felt a surge of… something. Her jaw clenched. She knew she should be friendly, maybe even a little excited. Instead, she just wanted to walk out.

He waved enthusiastically, his arm a white flag of forced cheer. Amelia slowly rose, her movements deliberately sluggish. It wasn't fair. Months of late-night talks, secrets shared, now reduced to this awkward, sunlit reality.

"Hey!" He said, voice a little too loud. Amelia nodded, a curt, clipped motion. She wanted to say something cutting, something that would wipe that grin off his face. She opted for, "So. This is… something."