Gemotions

He had been late, as usual. But when Mark finally arrived, clutching a bouquet of her favorite lilies, Emily forgot all about the wait. The way his eyes crinkled when he smiled, the way he smelled of sandalwood and… coffee? It made her insides feel bubbly.

They settled into the cozy booth at the Italian restaurant, the candlelight reflecting off his kind face. As he regaled her with a story about his day, Emily found herself gazing out the window, noting the passing cars. A sleek, black convertible with tinted windows turned the corner and parked in front. A woman with striking features emerged.

"Oh, you have such great taste, Mark," the woman called out, with a genuine warmth in her voice. "I love this place!" Emily stared, the joy evaporating from her chest like the steam from her forgotten cappuccino.