Gemotions

The crisp autumn air invigorated Mark as he jogged through the park. Each stride felt effortless, his lungs expanding and contracting with rhythmic ease. His days at the animal shelter were packed with demanding tasks, but the gratitude in the animals’ eyes and the satisfaction of finding them loving homes was a constant source of uplift. His life felt like it had purpose.

He met Sarah, his closest confidant, for their weekly coffee. She’d been regaling him with tales of her exciting life in finance, her fast-paced work environment, the important clients she’d been dealing with. Her words had always sparked a certain degree of envy in him, but he also cherished his own experiences and his own life.

Today, however, the conversation took a sharp turn when another one of Sarah's coworkers, someone Mark knew, passed by. This coworker looked bewildered when Sarah gave a surprised greeting and insisted on a quick catch-up. He pulled Mark aside when she ran to the restroom. "Sarah… she doesn't work there," he said, confusion etched on his face. The words hung in the air, a cold weight settling in Mark's stomach.