Gemotions

The diner was almost empty, the harsh fluorescent lights casting long shadows. James fiddled with the straw in his milkshake, his gaze fixed on the entrance. He'd texted Emily earlier, suggesting a catch-up. He’d chosen this particular diner because they used to come here every Saturday morning as kids, sharing pancakes and whispering secrets.

He saw her walk in. She looked different. Older. He smiled, his heart quickening. She scanned the room, her expression neutral. She didn’t see him. He raised his hand hesitantly, but she was already heading toward a booth on the other side of the diner. She sat down, her back to him, and started talking animatedly with the man she was with.

James slowly lowered his hand. The milkshake tasted bland. He hadn't realized how much he’d been hoping. He stared at the half-empty glass, the sweet taste of the milkshake was gone. It felt like being trapped in a glass cage. He picked up his check, paid, and left, the silence of the empty diner wrapping around him like a cold, wet cloth.