Gemotions

"So, yeah, that’s the plan," Ben said, his voice brimming with optimism. He gestured enthusiastically, outlining the layout of his new apartment on a napkin. The cafe buzzed around them, a lively symphony of chatter and clinking cups, but for Leo, it was all background noise.

The news of Ben's impending move had settled over Leo like a shroud. He stared at his untouched plate of food, a simple sandwich that now seemed unappetizing. He picked at the crust, the repetitive motion doing nothing to ease the tightness in his chest.

“That’s… fantastic,” he managed, the words sounding flat and distant, even to his own ears. The air between them, usually filled with shared jokes and easy camaraderie, felt strained and thin, like it might break at any moment.