Gemotions

David slumped against the wall of the bar, the harsh neon lights reflecting in his watery eyes. He'd just finished listening to Emily’s tale of woe. They’d met at a support group, after it was revealed that they were both dating the same man, Mark.

Emily described the grand gestures, the passionate declarations. The same declarations David had heard. The same grand gestures he’d been on the receiving end of. A bitter taste rose in his mouth, but looking at Emily, he felt a different sensation.

"He's a mess," David said, the words barely audible. "He's going to need help." He looked at Emily, his expression softening. He reached out, gently touching her arm. "Do you want to get something to eat? Talk about something else?" The gesture was simple, an offering of solace and a chance to escape.