Gemotions

The flickering neon sign of the bar across the street seemed to throb in rhythm with Clara's chest. She tapped her fingernails against the cool glass of her water, the sound echoing in the sudden quiet of the restaurant. Liam, usually the life of the party, sat across from her, strangely subdued. His usual booming laughter was replaced with a tight smile.

“So, how’s the… uh… the accounting firm?” she asked, finally breaking the silence. A bead of sweat trickled down her temple.

Liam’s eyes darted around the room before landing back on hers. “It’s… fine.” He fiddled with his napkin, tearing off small, uneven pieces. "Busy. Really busy."

Clara felt a knot forming in her stomach. Liam had always bragged about his high-powered career, the deadlines, the important clients. He’d never seemed stressed before. Something was off.