Gemotions

The dinner party was supposed to be fun, a chance for Sarah to catch up with Emily and her fiancé, Alex. Yet, every word out of Alex’s mouth about his work as a "geologist" felt carefully constructed, as if he was choosing each one with utmost precision. She found herself scrutinizing every detail: the subtle tremor in his hand as he raised his wine glass, the way he avoided direct eye contact.

When he left the table to take a phone call, Sarah excused herself, using the excuse of needing a freshening. She found him outside, speaking in a language she didn't recognise. Her heart pounded in her chest.

He returned, his face flushed. "Sorry," he mumbled, resuming his seat. The rest of the evening was a blur of forced smiles and carefully chosen topics. The evening ended with Sarah politely excusing herself. She didn’t want to be there any longer.