Gemotions

He felt the heat crawl up his neck, a slow burn that intensified with each passing minute. The airline’s automated voice, droning on about mechanical difficulties, was like a personal taunt. Missing the concert was unacceptable. He’d promised her. He glanced at his phone, the image of her face, laughing, a potent fuel to the fire.

His jeans felt suddenly tight, constricting in a way he hadn't noticed before. He shifted, trying to find a comfortable position in the plastic seat. It was useless. He felt wired, every nerve ending buzzing. He imagined her, waiting, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. The thought made his breath catch in his throat.

He leaned back, closing his eyes, and focused on his breathing, trying to regain some semblance of control. The floral scent of the woman beside him, her perfume, a fresh and intoxicating aroma, was getting to him, a cruel reminder of what he would be missing.