Gemotions

The engagement ring, a diamond the size of a pigeon's egg, glittered on the velvet cushion. Her ex-fiancé, Mark, had brought it back, along with a lawyer. His reason was simple: money. He needed to sell the ring to fund his new business venture.

She stared at the ring, the symbol of a broken promise, the emblem of a life she'd lost. She’d always loved it. He had wanted her to love it. She’d pictured herself wearing it forever, but the dream was crushed. She thought of their wedding plans, the invitations, the cake tasting. All of it now felt like a cruel joke.

She forced herself to meet his gaze, but his eyes were cold and indifferent. She felt an overwhelming surge of heat, a burning wave that consumed her. She knew she should be angry, but instead, she felt empty, a husk of her former self. Her voice seemed too small to manage.