Gemotions

The afternoon sun seemed to mock him, casting long, cheerful shadows. He forced a smile, but it felt brittle, unnatural. He walked towards the space, then stopped.

He stood there, motionless, his hands clenched at his sides. The absence was a physical ache. The world seemed to fade, the vibrant colours of the park blurring into a muted grey. His vision swam.

He closed his eyes, then opened them again, the loss still there. He swallowed, trying to dislodge the lump that had lodged in his throat.