Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the market stalls seemed to mock him. Everything, from the fragrant spices to the lively chatter of the vendors, felt like an assault. Sarah had been practicing Mandarin, and the effortless way she now navigated this world, a world that had once been their shared secret, was unbearable.

He lagged behind her, his steps slow and deliberate. He wanted her to notice his distance, to feel his withdrawal. Each purchase she made, each interaction she had, chipped away at his composure.

He deliberately bumped into a fruit stand, knocking a pile of oranges to the ground. He didn't offer to help. He simply walked away, leaving her to pick up the mess.