Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the coffee shop, mirroring the storm brewing inside Maya. Liam. He’d looked right through her, asked her name like she was a complete stranger. They’d built treehouses, shared secrets whispered in the dark, and now… nothing. She plastered on a smile, a brittle thing that didn't reach her eyes, as she watched him order his latte. She’d made sure to be here, at his favorite spot, precisely at his usual time. She'd picked the table nearest the window, perfectly positioned to observe him.

Her knuckles, white against the table, tightened around the ceramic mug. She’d spent weeks, poring over old photos, forcing back the flood of memories that threatened to drown her. His forgotten face, her forgotten youth. Now, here he was, oblivious, chatting up the barista.

A small smirk tugged at her lips as he turned to leave, his phone buzzing in his hand. She discreetly flicked a stray coffee bean towards his immaculate, newly polished shoes. He didn't react.