Gemotions

He slumped onto the park bench, the cold seeping through his jeans. A leaden sensation settled in his chest, a feeling he couldn't shake. The vibrant autumn leaves swirling around him seemed to mock his inner state. Another cancelled date. "She" was always busy, always had an excuse. David ran a hand through his hair, the gesture more out of habit than comfort. He was starting to feel like a spare part.

A woman walked up, her expression a mirror of his own. She carried a bouquet of wilted lilies, and her shoulders slumped. He had definitely seen her picture on "Lisa's" Instagram.

"He stood you up too, huh?" she asked, her voice flat, devoid of emotion. Her eyes were shadowed, reflecting a familiar ache.

David nodded. "Said he had to 'work late.'" The words tasted like ash in his mouth.

"He told me the same thing," she said, dropping the flowers onto the bench beside him. They both sat in silence, the autumn wind rustling the dead leaves around them.