Gemotions

He stared at his reflection, the bathroom light cruel and unforgiving. The tremor in his hand was almost imperceptible, a tiny betrayal. He knew her from the local park, their shared secret forming an unspoken bond.

He’d almost tripped over the curb outside, again, and she had rushed to help, her expression a mix of concern and pity. He had recoiled, and the brief connection had vanished. Today he saw her walking a dog, looking straight at him, but then quickly turned her face away.

He knew she would be at the cafe. It was the only place he felt as though he could possibly relax. But as he sat at the table, she walked in, and took a seat in the farthest corner, avoiding his gaze.