Gemotions

The cafe buzzed with a low hum of conversation, but Maya felt as though she were the sun, radiating warmth. Each sip of her latte tasted like pure energy, and her fingers tapped a cheerful rhythm on the table. She was completely smitten with Liam, his laugh a melody, his eyes pools of kindness. She’d been preparing for their Sunday brunch all morning, choosing the perfect outfit, a flowing emerald dress that felt like a second skin.

He texted: “Running a few minutes late, gorgeous.”

A smile stretched across her face. Perfect. More time to soak up the atmosphere. She was just mentally rehearsing the sweet nothings she’d whisper when a woman approached her table. This woman, with hair the color of flames and a confident stride, smiled in greeting. “Liam’s running late, huh? He told me the same thing.”

Her world seemed to tilt. The emerald dress suddenly felt constricting.