Gemotions

The news landed like a punch to the gut. Michael, usually jovial and easygoing, felt a physical ache in his chest. Across the coffee shop table, Ben’s words about moving to Austin blurred into a meaningless stream.

He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture he hadn't noticed he had, until now. The clatter of cups, the chatter of other patrons, all amplified and distorted, became an unbearable cacophony. He felt detached.

"Austin?" Michael repeated, the word sounding alien. He couldn't understand why his best friend would do such a thing. He felt the world slipping and tilting.