Gemotions

The flyer felt slick between Maya's fingertips, the glossy photo of Liam grinning in front of a California beach. Her breath hitched. Across the kitchen island, Liam was casually loading the dishwasher. A normal Tuesday evening. He'd just finished telling her about the job offer, the perfect opportunity, the dream come true. A rush prickled her skin, like static electricity before a storm.

“So, like, when are you thinking of going?” she managed, her voice a little too high. She busied herself fiddling with a loose thread on her jeans, her knuckles white.

Liam turned, his brow furrowed slightly. “Probably in a month or so. August, I guess. Why? You’re not… bummed, are you?”

Maya forced a smile. “No! Of course not. That’s…amazing.” The words felt hollow, bouncing around the suddenly cavernous kitchen. She needed air, something to occupy her hands. She grabbed a dish towel and began furiously wiping down the already spotless counter.