Gemotions

The website opened, the essay titled, “The Weight of a Song,” stared back at him. His essay, now an example, was about his partner, who had been a musician. He stared at the words, feeling a sudden chill. The world felt muted, as if someone had turned down the volume.

He remembered her smile, the way she played, the way her music had filled their apartment. He was so empty. So much space remained where she had been. He’d poured his sorrow into this piece, and now, strangers would read it.

He sat on the floor, the computer forgotten. His breath caught in his throat. He wrapped his arms around himself, as if trying to hold himself together. He wanted to scream.