Gemotions

The bar was smoky and dim, the air filled with the buzz of conversation. He had come here, hoping to lose himself. Then, the music started. A piano intro, instantly recognizable. His song. He knew the pianist, a young woman who was a few years his junior. He'd never given her permission to play it.

He slumped against the bar, his drink untouched. The music flowed through the room, each chord a fresh wound. He saw her smile, the pleasure on her face. Her voice, confident and clear. He wanted to call out, to tell her to stop. The notes continued, pulling him under. He could barely breathe.