Gemotions

"So," Ethan began, his voice surprisingly steady, "You're…leaving." He fiddled with the strap of his backpack, a nervous habit he hadn't realized he still possessed. Across the cafe table, Chloe smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. The casual smile felt jarring.

He’d always imagined their lives intertwined, a tapestry woven thread by thread. He recalled all the small rituals, the shared movie nights, the inside jokes only they understood. It all felt like a movie ending, the credits rolling.

He sipped his coffee, the bitter taste doing little to ground him. The sun, usually a welcome warmth on his skin, felt harsh and unforgiving. He wanted to reach out, to grab her hand, but his hand just remained, resting on the table.