Gemotions

The park bench felt cold against her back. The vibrant autumn leaves swirling around her felt bright, but the warmth from the sun was not enough to penetrate her skin. He was late, again. "Just five more minutes," she muttered under her breath. He had been promising a weekend in the countryside for weeks.

She pulled her scarf tighter, the fabric a small comfort against the chill. Other couples strolled by, their laughter and easy affection a sharp contrast to her internal state. She began to replay their last conversation in her mind, searching for clues, for an explanation. She just felt tired, a deep, pervasive weariness. A text. "Emergency. Can’t make it."