Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the park. Alex watched from a distance as his friend, Ben, delivered leaflets for a local business. Ben, who had claimed to be a highly successful entrepreneur, was handing out pamphlets. A wave of a particular feeling washed over Alex. He felt a softening in his chest.

He remembered Ben's infectious laugh, the way he always knew how to make people feel good, the way he would bring people together. He recalled Ben's relentless optimism. He knew that the truth, whatever it was, was probably difficult for Ben.

He went to find Ben. He didn't bring up the leaflets. Instead, he asked Ben if he wanted to get some ice cream.