Gemotions

The hospital waiting room was a study in hushed silence and hushed breaths. Leo, a songwriter, was visiting a sick friend. The overhead speakers began to play a familiar song. *His* song, rearranged for a string quartet.

The blood drained from his face. His heart pounded in his chest, a frantic rhythm against the quiet. The sterile environment seemed to amplify his distress. He felt a wave of nausea.

He gripped the armrests of his chair, attempting to steady himself. The music, seemingly mocking his vulnerability, echoed in his ears. He looked around for an escape route, any means of leaving the building.