Gemotions

"Focus," Sarah whispered to herself, squeezing her eyes shut. The upcoming audition was everything. Years of practice, sacrifices, all boiled down to this one moment. Her online friend, "StarryEyes," had been her rock, offering encouragement and a listening ear. She’d always believed she lived miles away. Then came a message: Let's grab coffee? Her palms were slick with sweat.

Her tiny apartment felt like a pressure cooker, the walls closing in. She paced back and forth, unable to settle. A walk, fresh air, she told herself. Just a little time to clear her head.

The park was beautiful, but she found herself barely noticing. Her eyes scanned the crowd, searching for him. When she saw him, a wave of something – fear? – washed over her.