Gemotions

The aroma of spiced cider and crackling fire filled the air, but the autumn festival was a poor substitute for the picnic he'd skipped. He was there with some acquaintances, but the jovial atmosphere did nothing to chase the chill in his bones. He had bailed on Sarah.

He watched the children run and play, the joy in their faces a stark contrast to his own internal turmoil. He kicked at a pile of leaves, the sound of his foot hitting the earth echoing in the stillness.

He felt the weight of his decision pressing down on him, a physical ache in his chest. A sudden need to make amends overwhelmed him. He should have been there.