Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled Amelia's apartment, a scent she found deeply comforting. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. She poured two mugs, one for herself, and one for Leo, her best friend. He was late, as usual, but she didn’t mind. She was, in fact, incredibly content. He was always there for her.

She heard his key in the lock, followed by his signature boisterous greeting. "Amelia, my star! Sorry I'm late, boardroom meeting ran long!" He winked, grabbed his mug, and settled onto her worn sofa. Leo, always charming, always quick with a story.

"So," he began, launching into a tale about a cutthroat deal. Amelia, smiling, listened with rapt attention. He'd been working at a high-powered finance firm for years, or so she'd thought. Later that day, she saw him, not in a suit, but slinging burgers at a fast-food restaurant. The feeling that washed over her was one of tremendous relief for him.