Gemotions

The sterile environment of the terminal felt even more sterile than usual. The news that his brother's new baby was in the hospital, and his wife's insistence he come, was now impossible. His flight was delayed.

He gripped his phone tightly, his knuckles white. The cold metal was a small point of contact, a anchor in the swirling chaos. His heart felt as though it was physically sinking.

He found a secluded corner and buried his face in his hands, trying to stifle the sound of his own heavy breathing. He felt a deep, crushing sorrow. He closed his eyes, picturing his brother's face, a face that was probably now etched with worry.

His absence would be felt, a missing piece in the tapestry of their lives.