Gemotions

The phone slipped from Elias's grasp, clattering onto the worn wooden table. He stared at the screen, heart thudding a frantic rhythm against his ribs. The message: "Honey, the flowers are on the way. Did you remember the red wine?" It was addressed to...Mr. Henderson? He’d been meaning to text Sarah about dinner. A bead of sweat trickled down his temple. This was bad, very bad. He picked up his phone, his hand trembling.

Elias re-read the message, then the contact name. He didn't know a Mr. Henderson. His stomach churned. He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it standing on end. What could he possibly say to this stranger? He felt a wave of cold wash over him.

He considered the possibilities: ignore it, apologize profusely, or… He took a shaky breath and started typing.