Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually comforting, turned his stomach. He sat in the coffee shop, the steam rising and obscuring his vision. He’d seen the congratulatory post on social media earlier that morning. Emily had gotten the job. He was happy for her, truly. So why did his hands feel numb?

They’d shared so many dreams, so many aspirations. He’d imagined them working together, celebrating successes. Now, a wave of something he couldn't name washed over him.

He took a sip of the bitter liquid, the taste lingering on his tongue. The sounds of the cafe became a distant blur. The congratulatory message echoed in his head, a constant, unpleasant reminder.