Gemotions

The ocean breeze whipped through Maya's hair as she and Ethan strolled along the beach. She felt a lightness, an exhilarating freedom she hadn't known in years. His hand brushed hers, and a jolt, a spark, went through her. She loved the way his eyes met hers, how his laughter filled the air. They'd been sharing stories, secrets, and a connection that felt both instant and profound. He seemed to know her, anticipate her thoughts, understand her in a way no one else ever had.

He stopped, his hand still lightly touching hers. He pulled out his phone. "Look at this," he said, handing it to her. The photo showed them on the beach. He was smiling at her. He was laughing with her. But a second later, she saw a photo he'd received a few minutes earlier, the same beach, the same smile, the same laugh, but with a different woman.

The world seemed to tilt. A wave of nausea washed over her. She took a step back, her chest suddenly tight. "I… I need some air," she stammered, turning and fleeing towards the dunes.