Gemotions

He leaned back against the plush velvet cushions of the restaurant booth, the low lighting casting warm shadows. A subtle aroma of garlic and herbs drifted from the kitchen. He took a slow sip of his Chianti, the ruby liquid warming him from the inside. The gentle murmur of conversation around him was a pleasant background to his own internal quietude. He was waiting for Chloe, who was always late, but tonight, he didn't mind. He was simply existing, savoring the anticipation.

A figure slid into the booth opposite him. He looked up, a smile ready, but it died on his lips. It was not Chloe. It was a man, with Chloe’s same sparkling eyes.

"This is awkward," the man said, a slight flush rising on his cheeks.

He just stared. “Yeah,” he said flatly. “You could say that.”