Gemotions

The park bench felt cold and unforgiving beneath Leo. Across from him, Maya nervously tapped her fingers against her leg. They had discovered their connection during a chance encounter at a dog park. They both had a golden retriever named, coincidentally, "Buddy." And they both, also coincidentally, were dating a man named James who claimed to be a veterinarian.

Maya's voice cracked as she spoke about her plans for a beach vacation with James. Leo listened, his own internal turmoil competing with a profound sense of sadness for Maya.

"I... I had a whole scrapbook planned," Maya said, her voice catching. Leo watched her, his own anger momentarily forgotten. He took a deep breath. "Buddy really needs a walk, why don't we go?" he suggested, gesturing towards the playful dog. The suggestion was an attempt to distract, to shift her focus away from the pain.