Gemotions

The sunlight was relentless on Leo’s face as he sat alone at the coffee shop. The cafe was usually a welcome retreat from the chaos of his day, but today, every laugh, every shared glance from other couples grated on him. He traced the rim of his untouched latte, watching the door. *He* was late, as usual.

Then he saw *her* emerge, arm in arm with another man. The man was taller, more handsome, he thought, with a pang of resentment that twisted his gut. *Her* smile was brighter, the laughter more genuine than he had ever seen it.

The barista called his name. Leo ignored the call, and kept his eyes trained on the pair. He wanted, desperately, to be that man. He wanted that laugh directed at him. He stood up, and left without getting his drink.