Gemotions

The small, dimly lit pub was supposed to be a refuge, a cozy haven from the world. But for Ben, it felt more like a cage. His date, Lisa, had been talking animatedly about her career, her friends, her life, but he just couldn't muster any enthusiasm. He drank his beer, feeling a strange hollowness, a complete lack of interest in the things that used to excite him. He felt like a stranger looking in.

Lisa excused herself to the restroom, and he watched her leave, feeling a sense of relief. Then his phone buzzed. A message. From Lisa. “Where are you? I’m here.”

Ben stared at the screen, a wave of confusion washing over him. Then he saw her, talking to another woman at the bar.