Gemotions

"Coffee?" Clara offered, her voice light and playful as she entered the cluttered kitchen. Her roommate, Sarah, was humming along to music, stirring something in a saucepan. Clara was looking forward to a study-free evening. The scent of cinnamon and brewing coffee filled the air, a familiar comfort.

"Sure!" Sarah replied, not looking up.

Clara poured herself a mug, then turned to her laptop, which was sitting on the table. She opened her email, a gentle smile on her face. A pleasant anticipation bubbled inside her.

The smile faltered. The warm feeling evaporated, replaced by a cold knot of dread. She set her mug down with a clatter, the sound sharp in the suddenly silent room.