Gemotions

The city noise invaded Daniel's apartment, a relentless symphony of car horns and distant sirens. He closed the blinds, the sudden dimness failing to soothe his frayed nerves. He just wanted silence. His phone buzzed - a text from Chloe. "Can't wait to see you tonight, querido!" Daniel stared at the screen. Querido. The Spanish word for "darling" or "loved one." It was the first time she'd ever used it, and the sound of it, even in text, was jarring. He dropped the phone onto the table, the plastic clicking against the wood. His shoulders were slumped. He rubbed his eyes with the heel of his hand.