Gemotions

He sat in the park, the crisp autumn air nipping at his cheeks. The leaves, a riot of red and gold, swirled around him, a kaleidoscope of color. He watched a couple laughing, their hands intertwined. He wished he could feel that.

Suddenly, a busker at the far end of the pathway began playing a song. The familiar intro caused a jolt. His song. This version was upbeat, with a jaunty rhythm. The musician was young, confident, radiating energy.

He leaned back against the rough bark of a tree, his breath catching in his throat. The music filled the space, a vibrant counterpoint to the quietude of his existence. He closed his eyes, the melody a constant reminder of everything he felt he had lost. The music ended. He remained in place, unable to move.