Gemotions

He’d known, of course. Deep down, he’d always known. But hearing it, the simple, matter-of-fact tone in which Maria told him she was leaving, was like a physical blow. James felt the color drain from his face, leaving him feeling cold and empty.

He excused himself from the crowded bar, needing air. He stumbled outside, the neon lights of the city suddenly blinding. He leaned against the brick wall, the rough texture a poor comfort against the sudden, sharp hollowness in his chest.

He closed his eyes, his mind replaying the last few years, a highlight reel of shared laughter and inside jokes. They were all going to become just memories. He opened his eyes, and the world looked distorted.