Gemotions

The flowers were delivered as I was about to go on a date. I tried to stay calm, but my hands were clammy. A stunning arrangement of orchids. No message. My initial reaction was a surge of hope, a flutter of excitement, quickly replaced with a gnawing unease.

I frantically scrolled through my phone, checking every text, every email. Who would send orchids? Had I somehow offended someone? Was this a joke? I felt a knot tighten in my chest, making it difficult to breathe.

I considered cancelling the date. The orchids, the unspoken words, cast a pall over my anticipation. I stared at the vibrant blooms, their beauty suddenly tainted by an unspoken dread.