Gemotions

The takeout container felt strangely heavy in Leo's hands. He'd just been laughing with Maya a few minutes ago, sharing fries and complaining about their jobs. Now, the weight of the greasy cardboard seemed to mirror the pit forming in his stomach. He pictured her telling him: "I'm moving, Leo. To Seattle. Next month." The words echoed in his mind, dislodging all other thoughts. He fumbled with the keys, missing the lock twice before finally getting the door open.

He kicked off his shoes and stood frozen in the entry, the scent of the curry instantly nauseating him. He'd ordered their usual, but suddenly the food looked inedible. He pictured Maya, already picturing herself in the rain-swept city, making new friends. His apartment felt too quiet, the space around him vast and empty.

He went to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of water, taking a long, deep swig, the cold liquid barely touching the dryness of his throat. He leaned against the counter, the smooth tile a cold relief against his back, and stared at the wall, at the framed photograph of the two of them at the beach, both grinning. He blinked, hard, and the image blurred.