Gemotions

The car was spotless, the playlist meticulously curated. Michael glanced at the rearview mirror, smoothing down his already perfect hair. Tonight, he was going to propose to Chloe. He clutched the velvet box in his pocket, feeling the weight of the ring, the weight of their future, a thrilling, delightful burden. His heart sang a happy tune.

He pulled up to the restaurant, the valet opening his door with a flourish. As he stepped out, he saw her, standing beneath the awning, radiant in the starlight. Chloe’s face lit up as she saw him.

But then, a man emerged from the restaurant, his hand reaching for hers, his voice calling out with a cheerful enthusiasm. "Sophia, honey, I'm here!" Michael's carefully constructed world tilted on its axis. He wasn't sure he could breathe.