Gemotions

The digital clock on the dashboard flickered, taunting Ethan. He’d seen the announcement on social media hours ago, but he’d waited, hoping it was some cruel joke. Now, he sat in the car outside "Burger Bliss," the neon sign a faded memory of its former glory.

He used to frequent the place every Friday night with his friends. The greasy burgers, the loud music, the shared laughter. Now, all that seemed distant, like a dream. He’d let the friendships fade, too, prioritizing work over everything.

He rolled down the window, inhaling the familiar scent of fries and grilled onions. He'd never told them how much it mattered, how much they mattered. He rested his forehead against the steering wheel, a sense of loss washing over him.