Gemotions

The first swing of the wrecking ball. The sound echoed in the empty street, a hollow thud that seemed to vibrate through Leo’s very bones. He stood rooted, the takeout coffee cup clutched in his trembling hand. He felt the taste of the coffee sour on his tongue.

He had promised himself he wouldn't come. He had sworn to be strong. But here he was, watching the building slowly collapse.

Each crash, each splintering board, felt like a personal violation. He wanted to scream, to run, to rewind time, but he just stood there, his jaw clenched, his eyes wide. He needed to get out of there.