Gemotions

“Another one?” The barista asked, her voice laced with a forced cheerfulness that grated on Leo's nerves. He just nodded, handing over a crumpled dollar. The coffee shop was his refuge, the only place he could sometimes find some peace. He sat in his usual spot, watching the world go by, each person a vibrant contrast to his own inner quiet.

A woman approached his table, her eyes red-rimmed. "Excuse me," she said, her voice trembling. "Do you have…?" He simply nodded, cutting her off. He knew. Another one of them. He beckoned her to sit. He would listen, but he wouldn't promise anything. The thought of company was not exactly welcoming.