Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread usually soothed Mark. Today, it only intensified the ache in his chest. He had found the wallet near the bakery, its sleek leather a stark contrast to the rough cobblestones. The cash inside was enough to change his circumstances.

He looked around. The busy street seemed to taunt him with its interactions, its laughter, its casual camaraderie. He felt a sharp pang of something he couldn't name. He could feel it in his teeth. He felt it in the pit of his stomach. He sighed. It was time to return it. Even if he had to face another empty day.