Gemotions

"You're what?" whispered Chloe, the words barely audible. Across the country. It echoed in her ears, a harsh melody that drowned out the background chatter of the cafe. Sarah’s face glowed with excitement, while a strange heat spread through Chloe's body.

She focused on the condensation on her iced tea glass, tracing circles with her finger. She had always imagined their lives entwined, a constant presence in each other's worlds. Now, the threads were being severed, one by one.

Chloe excused herself, abruptly, claiming a sudden need to leave. Walking outside, the sun seemed overly bright, the sounds of the city too loud. She blinked back the sting in her eyes.