Gemotions

He stared at the departing gate, the departure board a cruel reminder of his predicament. He was supposed to be in Chicago, there for Maya's concert. He needed to be there, to see her on stage.

His palms were slick with sweat. He imagined her, bathed in stage light, her voice soaring through the venue. He felt his chest tighten, a knot of longing. He wanted to be there, to witness it all.

He had rehearsed every detail of the reunion, every word he would say. The constant announcements of further delays were a torture. He glanced at his phone again, debating calling her. It was too soon, he decided. He had to keep the surprise.