Gemotions

The airport's air conditioning blasted freezing air against Liam's skin, making him shiver. His stomach churned. He stared blankly at the departures board, the digital numbers mocking him. His best friend's wedding. He’d booked this flight months ago. He’d envisioned the celebration, the laughter, the toast he'd prepared. Now? He was stranded.

He slumped onto the floor, pulling his knees up to his chest. He felt a lump forming in his throat. He pulled out his phone, re-reading the message from Mark, "Can't wait to see you, buddy!" The screen blurred as tears welled in his eyes.

Liam squeezed his eyes shut. The silence of the airport, punctuated only by the distant hum of the engines, was deafening. He felt a deep, profound sense of loss, as if he were already missing something precious. He focused on his breathing.