Gemotions

The cafe buzzed with Sunday chatter, but Amelia barely noticed. A thrilling warmth radiated through her chest, a lightness in her step as she practically skipped towards the bakery. Last night with Liam had been extraordinary. The way he’d looked at her, the way he’d talked about his passion for restoring vintage cars… it was all utterly captivating. She hummed under her breath, choosing a chocolate croissant with extra delight.

Suddenly, a woman with fiery red hair and a dazzling smile bumped into her, scattering a pile of cookbooks. "Oh, I am so sorry!" the woman exclaimed, her voice bright and melodic. Amelia, already feeling buoyant, easily forgave her. They started gathering the fallen books. "Liam is utterly hopeless when it comes to grocery shopping, isn't he?" the red-haired woman said.

Amelia froze. "Liam? You know Liam?" A thrilling jolt, like an electric spark, shot through her. The woman's smile faltered. "Yes...we're...well, we're seeing each other. Have been for months." Amelia’s shoulders straightened. The world tilted slightly.