Gemotions

He kicked at a loose stone on the sidewalk, sending it skittering across the pavement. Across the country. The casual way she’d said it, as if she were simply suggesting a new flavor of ice cream.

He was suddenly aware of the pulse thrumming in his temples, a pounding rhythm that matched the frantic beat of his heart. He walked faster, wanting to escape the oppressive feeling that was building inside him.

He kept walking, the buildings blurring in his vision, each step an attempt to outrun the inevitable. His hands were clenched. His shoulders were tight. His jaw was locked. He didn't want to think about the move. He couldn't.