Gemotions

He was fine, absolutely fine. That’s what he told himself, even as his hands felt clumsy and his brain felt like it was encased in cotton. When Emily announced she was going to New York, he forced a smile and offered a congratulations. He felt detached, as if watching a play unfold.

Later, he found himself wandering through the grocery store, aimlessly picking up items and then putting them back. He couldn't remember what he needed. His mind kept circling back to the news. He felt the need to get outside and clear his head, but felt paralyzed.

The familiar sights and sounds of the store felt overwhelming, chaotic. The world was suddenly too bright, too loud. He gripped the handle of his basket with an unfamiliar intensity, as if to anchor himself to reality.