Gemotions

He chuckled, a short, sharp sound, when she asked about the call. They were eating dinner, attempting a conversation. He had, as usual, excused himself to answer it. She tried to appear nonchalant, but her jaw clenched.

The food tasted like ash in her mouth. She pushed her plate away. His explanation felt flimsy, unsatisfying. She felt a profound sense of isolation, as though she were standing on a deserted island, watching him on the mainland.

She stood, leaving the untouched food behind. Her throat felt tight. She walked away, without saying goodbye.