Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of Liam’s workshop, mirroring the turmoil brewing inside him. He'd just seen a social media post: Sarah, his supposed high-flying architect friend, was working as a dog groomer. The revelation had a strange effect on him; he felt a warmth spread through him, a gentleness. It was a warmth he hadn't anticipated.

Liam knew how much Sarah's pride meant to her, how carefully she cultivated her image. She was fiercely independent. He imagined the exhaustion of her days, the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. He pictured the way she spoke about her designs, the way her eyes lit up with passion. He knew she deserved a good evening.

Later that evening, he baked her favourite chocolate cake. He placed it carefully into a box, tied a ribbon around it, and headed towards her apartment. He’d bring her some of the cake. He would not confront her. He’d simply listen, if she wanted to talk.