Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the coffee shop, mirroring the tempest brewing inside Ben. He gripped his mug so tightly his knuckles were white. The ceramic felt cold and useless against his clammy palms. Sarah’s news, delivered with a casual smile, had punched the air right out of him.

He couldn’t meet her eyes. He focused on the swirling patterns the raindrops made on the glass. The cafe's usual comforting hum seemed to grate on his nerves.

He took a large gulp of the now lukewarm coffee, his throat tight. "Across the country... that's... a big move." It came out a choked whisper.