Gemotions

Sarah slumped onto the park bench, the familiar rough wood a poor substitute for the comfort she needed. Across the country. Miles and miles. The words echoed in her mind, each syllable a hammer blow. Liam, her anchor, her partner in crime, was leaving.

She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to ward off the sudden chill. The leaves of the ancient oak above rustled, a mocking whisper in the autumn breeze. She watched children shriek with laughter as they played, and each sound felt like a stab of pain. Happiness seemed foreign.

"Everything alright?" her mother’s text chimed through her pocket. Sarah ignored it. She felt a knot tighten in her chest, a physical manifestation of the dread. She thought about cancelling the weekend plans they had, knowing full well she wouldn't be able to keep it together.