Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Amelia's hands, but the heat didn't seem to touch the icy knot in her stomach. Across the diner table, Liam was animated, describing the new hiking trails he was eager to explore. His eyes shone with excitement. Amelia managed a weak smile, tracing the condensation on her glass. The words, "California, here I come!" echoed in her ears, each syllable a tiny hammer blow.

The waitress, a woman with a kind face, refilled Amelia’s coffee without being asked. The gesture, usually a comfort, felt intrusive. Amelia wished the woman would just leave her alone.

Liam rambled on, oblivious. He was talking about surfing. Amelia felt her throat tighten, making it difficult to swallow. The air in the diner felt thick, almost suffocating. She wanted to scream, to grab his arm and beg him to stay. Instead, she took a long, shaky breath and nodded, pretending to be interested.