Gemotions

He’d booked a table for two at The Gilded Spoon for his anniversary. He'd even planned the whole night: the walk through the park, the whispered promises, the perfect meal. Now, scrolling through the restaurant’s website, a notice screamed at him from the top: "Closing Down – Last Day of Service: Friday." He reread it, his jaw clenched, the blood draining from his face.

His fingers fumbled as he attempted to call his wife, Sarah. The phone slipped, clattering onto the counter. He snatched it back up, his voice cracking when she answered. "Hey, babe," he croaked, as if nothing was amiss. "Listen... about tonight..." He didn't want to admit his blunder. He had wanted this night to be memorable, a perfect reminder of their bond. Now, he felt clumsy, inept.