Gemotions

Liam practically levitated as he cruised down the highway in his convertible, the wind whipping through his hair. He hadn’t felt this good in ages. The music on the radio felt like a personal serenade as he sped toward the "tech startup" where his friend, Maya, claimed to be a senior data analyst. He had a gift certificate for a fancy restaurant in his pocket, a celebration for Maya’s recent promotion, or so she'd said.

The building loomed before him, a sleek glass structure. Liam parked and bounded inside, eager to surprise Maya. He inquired about her at the front desk, a young man who looked perpetually glued to his phone. “Maya? Nah, we don’t have anyone named Maya working here. We've just got this open plan area." Liam felt a peculiar lightness, a balloon about to pop. His smile faltered; the restaurant gift certificate suddenly felt heavy in his pocket.