Gemotions

The smell of burnt popcorn still clung to the air. Sarah had attempted a movie night, a small gathering of friends to celebrate a new job. Turns out, the movie was just a backdrop to the real event: the heated argument between her and Mark, her boyfriend. Now, the super was at her door.

He looked around, taking in the scene: the half-empty bottles of wine, the overturned cushions, the lingering scent of smoke. He’d never been the friendliest man, but his usual gruff demeanor was replaced by a look that was almost pitying.

Sarah’s face flushed. Every square inch of her skin felt like it was on fire. She felt a burning need to explain, to apologize, to somehow make amends. But the words wouldn't come. She just stood there, mortified, as he shook his head and walked away, muttering something about noise complaints.