Gemotions

He had taken the day off work, anticipating the celebration. The news, delivered by a mutual friend, had left him feeling bereft. He wandered aimlessly through the park, the cheerful chatter of children and the laughter of others grating on his ears. A knot of distress constricted his throat.

He sat on a bench, watching the leaves fall. The vibrant colors of autumn seemed to mock his current internal state. He kicked at a pile of leaves, his movements slow and listless. He felt profoundly alone.