Gemotions

John had never seen Emily cry. He had just heard her news, and they were walking home. The setting sun cast long shadows, mirroring the darkness that had descended on them. He kept trying to talk, but the words wouldn't come out.

She had always been the stronger one, the more confident one. Now, she was walking ahead of him, her shoulders slumped, her pace slow. He kept his distance. He didn't know what to say.

The silence grew heavy between them. He thought about reaching out, putting his hand on her shoulder, but he didn't. He didn't want to intrude on whatever process she was working through. His own chest felt tight.

They arrived at the building. As she turned the corner to her door, he heard a muffled sob. He looked at her back, then turned and kept walking.