Gemotions

The chipped mug felt heavy in Amelia's hand as she stared at Liam. His easy smile, the one she’d fallen for, now seemed… fabricated. Across the tiny, candlelit table, the same smile was directed at a woman named Chloe. Amelia had arrived at the restaurant, giddy with anticipation for their anniversary dinner. Chloe, arriving moments later, looked equally expectant. It was the same restaurant they’d frequented, the same specific booth they always requested. A knot tightened in Amelia's stomach.

The waiter, oblivious, placed a bottle of champagne between them. "Happy anniversary," he chirped, before scurrying away. The bubbles in the champagne suddenly felt mocking.

Amelia’s fingers tightened on the mug, knuckles white. She watched Liam’s face, searching for any flicker of discomfort. Finding none, she drained her coffee in one gulp, the bitterness a suitable counterpoint to the saccharine scene unfolding before her. She set the mug down with a deliberate clatter.