Gemotions

He stared at the raindrops streaking the window, each one a tiny, transparent barrier separating him from her. Liam felt a strange ache in his chest, a deep longing that bordered on desperation. He was supposed to be in Venice by now, to celebrate her birthday.

He'd bought her a special gift, a delicate glass sculpture, that he planned to give her in person. It now sat in his carry-on, a fragile symbol of his affection. He closed his eyes, picturing her face, her infectious smile, and her vibrant eyes.

The delay news blared over the loudspeaker, and he groaned. Time seemed to stretch and warp, each minute an eternity. He imagined her, celebrating without him, and a wave of something akin to sadness washed over him. He needed to be there. He *had* to be there.