Gemotions

The restaurant’s festive atmosphere only amplified the hollowness within Daniel. The clinking of glasses, the murmur of conversations, felt like a pressure cooker against his senses. He rubbed his temples, hoping to ease the persistent ache behind his eyes. He was meeting Maya, trying to keep up some semblance of normality, but he was overwhelmed.

Maya wasn't alone. She was across the room, at a table with a different man. The other man was gesturing emphatically, and Maya seemed to be laughing.

He walked toward them, his steps heavy.

"Daniel?" Maya said, her smile faltering. The other man, who looked equally as stunned as Daniel felt, gave him a confused look.

Daniel had nothing left to say.