Gemotions

Heaviness clung to Ethan’s eyelids as he navigated the crowded art gallery. Each painting blurred, the colours running together like spilled paint. He'd agreed to meet Sarah, but the thought of conversation, of feigned enthusiasm for abstract expressionism, filled him with a leaden dread. He caught sight of a familiar face across the room, a woman with a cascade of auburn hair. Relief sparked a momentary surge of energy. Then, a man approached her, a hand resting possessively on her lower back. Ethan's stomach clenched. He knew that scent, that particular cologne. They were both wearing the same coat he'd bought for *her*.