Gemotions

He’d just finished the ribs, their smoky aroma still clinging to his fingertips. A genuine, relaxed smile played on his lips. His companion, Sarah, was laughing at something he'd said, her eyes crinkling at the corners. The restaurant's warm, woody interior always had this effect on him. It was a haven, a place where the world outside seemed to quiet.

He picked up the small announcement card and read the words. A slight narrowing of his eyes, not with anger, but with a strange, detached curiosity. “Well, that’s that,” he said, his voice even. He took another sip of his iced tea, the cold liquid refreshing. He glanced at Sarah, who was still smiling. He cleared his throat. "Should we order dessert?"