Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the departure lounge, mirroring the storm brewing inside Daniel. His flight to Chicago, where his best friend was getting married, had been postponed for hours. He paced, ignoring the announcements, the chatter, the general airport hubbub. He had to be there.

He pictured Mark, beaming, his life partner beside him. He envisioned the wedding, the toasts, the dancing. A deep ache settled in his chest, a feeling of inadequacy he couldn't shake. He’d meticulously picked out a gift, a vintage record player that he thought Mark would adore. Now, he wouldn't be able to give it to him in person.

He found himself scrutinizing the other passengers, everyone seemingly relaxed, unconcerned. Their nonchalance irritated him. He took a sip of lukewarm coffee, the bitter liquid doing nothing to soothe the tightness in his shoulders. He hoped that Mark remembered to call him, at least.