Gemotions

"Wow," she managed, her voice flat, as the news sank in. Across the country. The words hung in the air, a phantom limb that was instantly severed. She looked at Leo, her best friend, whose face was lit up with glee.

She forced a smile and offered congratulations, but inside, a cold wave washed over her. She imagined the future without him, the empty space he would leave behind.

She found herself picking at a loose thread on her jeans, her gaze distant and unfocused. The happy music playing in the background suddenly grated on her nerves. Her stomach ached.