Gemotions

The flyer felt slick between Maya's fingers, the glossy image of the California coastline mocking her. Liam's new address, his planned move date, all laid out with the cheerful efficiency of a travel brochure. She traced the words with a fingertip, the ink barely smudging. She'd known, of course. He’d been hinting for months. The conversations about sunshine and different opportunities were starting to become more frequent and descriptive. Now, it was real.

She pushed back from the table, the chair scraping against the linoleum. The coffee was cold, and she dumped it down the drain. The apartment, usually vibrant with their shared laughter, now felt cavernous. She walked over to the window. Outside, the rain was relentless, mirroring the dull ache settling in her chest.

Later that evening, she texted him back the same smiley face emoji he sent her. Just one, not the usual barrage.