Gemotions

The sports store felt suffocating, filled with the aroma of new equipment. He wandered through the aisles, aimlessly touching balls, gloves, and other gear he knew he wouldn't purchase. He just needed to be in the zone of the team, even if it was just by proximity. He was stalling.

He kept seeing his reflection in the mirrored walls, his face grim, his eyes haunted. He'd had to disappoint someone. The weight of that decision pressed down on him.

He left the store, walking aimlessly until he found himself at the park. He sat on a bench, watching the kids play, their joyous shouts a cruel reminder of the innocence he'd somehow robbed from someone.