Gemotions

The salt air did nothing to lift Ethan’s spirits. He stood on the pier, watching the waves crash against the rocks. The rhythmic sound, usually so soothing, only served to amplify the thrumming in his head. Chloe, his “doctor” friend, had been tending bar all along.

He’d always felt a certain respect for Chloe. Now, that respect was tainted, replaced by a strange, confusing mix of feelings. He kicked at a loose pebble, sending it skittering across the wooden planks.

The sun dipped low, painting the sky in fiery hues. He saw couples walking hand in hand, oblivious to their own private hurts. He felt a wave of isolation wash over him, as if he were separated from the world by a thick pane of glass.