Gemotions

The walk to the park felt like a monumental effort for Noah. The wind, usually invigorating, nipped at his exposed skin, making him shiver. The volunteer coordinator position, the one he and Finn had both applied for, hung over him. He felt as though a weight had been strapped to him.

He sat on a bench, watching children play, their energy a stark contrast to his own languid movements. He felt a deep weariness, a profound sense of loss even before the race was run. He felt the sting of disappointment, like a hidden cut.

A text. Finn’s good news felt both expected and excruciating. He closed his eyes, then he opened them, the vibrant scene before him now blurred.