Gemotions

"So, yeah, that’s the deal," Ben said, his voice bright, almost manic. Sarah picked at a loose thread on the sofa, her gaze fixed on the frayed fabric. The words echoed in her head, a repetitive, unwelcome mantra. "Moving to Austin. Big opportunity."

The apartment felt too big, the silence amplifying the news. The sunlight streaming through the window seemed harsh, unforgiving. She didn't want him to leave.

She swallowed, trying to force down the sudden dryness in her mouth. She wanted to tell him all the things they'd never done together, all the silly inside jokes that might never be shared again.

"That's…great," she managed, her voice a fragile whisper. She hugged herself, suddenly cold despite the warmth of the room. A single tear traced a path down her cheek, quickly followed by another.