Gemotions

He stretched, arching his back until he felt a satisfying *pop* in his spine. Mark felt absolutely buoyant, like a balloon unmoored from its string. The morning air, scented with damp earth and blooming jasmine, invigorated him. He bounded down the stairs, whistling a lively tune as he went. He decided to walk to the park instead of taking the bus, his strides long and easy.

His phone vibrated. A text. *The surprise is off!*

He stopped dead in his tracks. A laugh, bright and clear, escaped his lips. He spun around, surveying the world with an expansive grin. Everything suddenly felt… lighter. He quickened his pace, now practically skipping towards the park, the earlier tune restarting in his head.