Gemotions

He ran a hand through his hair, the fluorescent lights of the terminal casting a sickly glow. The announcement of yet another delay for his flight to see his girlfriend, Sarah, felt like a physical blow. A knot formed in his stomach. But as he thought of her, his anxiety softened. He pictured her smile, the way her eyes crinkled when she laughed.

He reached for his phone, scrolling through photos of them together – the beach trip, the Christmas party, just even the casual selfie she had sent that morning. His fingers traced the screen, a tenderness spreading through him.

He composed a text: “Flight delayed again, gorgeous. Missing you already. xoxo”. He imagined her response – a quick, witty text followed by a string of heart emojis. It gave him a warmth he didn't expect. This setback was temporary. He knew the anticipation only heightened the pleasure of the eventual reunion.