Gemotions

The announcement on the restaurant's website had been a digital slap in the face. She'd been about to order her usual linguine with clams, her mouth already watering in anticipation, when the pop-up appeared: "Angelo's - Closing Due to Unforeseen Circumstances."

Her cheeks burned. She slammed her laptop shut with a sudden, sharp movement, the screen momentarily reflecting her own furious expression. She felt a wave of nausea.

She'd spent so many happy evenings there. The thought of losing this comfortable routine, this place of solace, made her skin crawl. It was as if a small, safe part of her had been unexpectedly snatched away. She felt a deep, embarrassing urge to cry.