Gemotions

He’d known, of course, that this day might come, but the news still hit like a physical blow. Mark, his usually calm and collected best friend, had just announced his relocation to California. A fiery sensation engulfed Thomas; his hands clenched into fists at his sides. He wanted to scream. He wanted to throw something. Anything to release this suffocating pressure.

Thomas stared out the window, the familiar backyard suddenly appearing alien. The sunlight seemed too bright, the birdsong grating. He felt a surge of nausea. "So, when's the going-away party?" he managed, his voice raspy, devoid of warmth.

Mark shrugged, completely missing the undercurrent of the question. "Next weekend, I guess."

Thomas turned abruptly, unable to face the unconcerned face anymore. He was suddenly overwhelmed, a hot wave sweeping him up and threatening to take him under. He didn't want to be understanding; he just wanted Mark to stay.