Gemotions

The flickering streetlights cast long, dancing shadows as Maya walked home. The silence of the city pressed in on her ears, a heavy blanket. She’d been staring at her phone for the past hour, hoping for a text, a call, anything to break the quiet. David hadn’t been returning her calls lately. He’d always told her he worked in finance. Today, she’d seen him, in a beat-up van, delivering groceries. A hollow feeling settled in her stomach as she imagined the real story behind his sudden disappearances.

The apartment felt cavernous when she finally unlocked the door. The scent of stale air and old books was a constant companion. She peeled off her coat, the fabric feeling rough against her skin, and stared at the empty sofa. It’s not like they spent much time together lately. She slumped onto the couch, the cushions swallowing her, and picked up the remote.