Gemotions

The flickering fluorescent lights of the cafe seemed to throb in rhythm with Liam's pulse. Across the small, scarred table, Maya was animated, describing the interview, the perfect way to answer the tricky questions. Liam nodded, but his mind wasn't there. He knew he hadn't done well.

He watched the way Maya’s hands moved, the bright excitement in her eyes. It was clear she felt like she had it in the bag. He could see her already imagining the possibilities, the new apartment, the travel. He felt a tight band around his chest, a sensation of pressure and disappointment.

"You really think you aced it?" Liam managed, his voice a little strained. He pushed a stray crumb of croissant around his plate with his fork.

Maya beamed. “Oh, absolutely! I think I did. How about you?”

He shrugged, avoiding her gaze. “It was fine.” He focused on the sugar crystals clinging to the rim of his coffee cup.