Gemotions

The wind whipped around Leo as he checked his mailbox, carrying with it a chill that seeped into his bones. He saw the card, its vibrant colors a stark contrast to the bleak landscape around him. He felt the familiar ache in his gut. A birthday card, unsigned and unknown. A reminder, perhaps, of what he lacked.

He held the card, its corners softened by the rain. He looked up at the grey sky and the empty street. It was just a card, he thought. A pointless gesture. He thought about the year ahead, a vast and unyielding expanse. He crumpled the card, then stopped himself and smoothed it out. He slipped it into his pocket, a tiny gesture of defiance, perhaps.