Gemotions

The chipped porcelain mug felt cold against Amelia’s trembling hands. The news had dropped like a lead weight, settling in her stomach and radiating outwards. She stared at the swirling coffee, the bitter taste a perfect mirror to her mood. Sunlight, ordinarily a welcome guest, now seemed to mock her through the kitchen window. The world continued, indifferent to the impending loss of Franco’s, her sanctuary.

She slammed the mug onto the counter, the sound echoing in the sudden silence of the apartment. She felt an urge to scream, to lash out at the inanimate objects around her. Why? Why did everything she loved seem destined to disappear?

Her phone buzzed. It was a text from Sarah, asking if she wanted to go to Franco’s tonight. Amelia stared at the screen, her chest constricting. The thought of going, of knowing it would be the last time… It was too much.

She responded, “Can’t. Feeling… off.”