Gemotions

The airport felt oppressively crowded, the air thick with the murmur of frustrated travelers. Eleanor traced patterns on the condensation of her water bottle, avoiding eye contact. Her sister’s graduation. A monumental achievement. And here she was, stuck.

She felt a hollowness in her chest, a physical ache that tightened with each passing announcement. She recalled the countless times she'd brushed off plans with her sister, too busy with her own life. This was the moment she had promised herself she would show up.

She stood up and paced restlessly, the polished floors reflecting her worried face. The endless wait, coupled with the thought of her sister, slowly drained her of energy.