Gemotions

The coffee cup trembled in her hand, the lukewarm liquid sloshing over the rim. She carefully placed it back on the counter, the clatter echoing in the deserted office. The message, *I wish we were together tonight,* now resided in the group chat for their team. It was meant for someone else, someone unavailable, someone *not* her.

A wave of heat surged through her, making her cheeks burn. She felt a burning pressure behind her eyes and swallowed hard, fighting back the sting. She abruptly turned, pushing open the heavy door and escaping into the bustling city. The clamor of traffic was a welcome distraction.