Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the park. Ben sat on a bench, watching children play, the scene a kaleidoscope of laughter and movement. He'd run into an old classmate the day before, who mentioned that Amy, the girl who once tormented him relentlessly, was now a therapist.

He kicked at a loose pebble, his gaze drifting to the distant playground. He imagined her, a master of empathy and compassion. He found himself lost in thought.

He felt a dull ache in his chest, a residue of old wounds. The carefree joy of the children seemed far removed from the complicated feelings churning inside him.