Gemotions

The park felt empty, save for the rustling of leaves in the breeze. David sat on a bench, watching a lone dog walker stroll along the path. The job rejection felt like an amputation. He thought he'd prepared himself, but the actual blow left him disoriented. He ran his hand over his face.

The air felt thin, difficult to breathe. He remembered the shared anticipation he and Alex, his friend, had held. The hours spent prepping, the inside jokes about what they'd do if they got the job. Now, it was just him and the silence.

He pulled out his phone, scrolling aimlessly. He considered calling Alex, but the thought of a congratulatory message made his stomach churn. The vast expanse of the park seemed to mirror the emotional distance that had opened up between them, even if Alex hadn't even been told the news.