Gemotions

Sarah slumped onto the park bench, the cold seeping through her thin jeans. The autumn leaves swirled around her feet, mimicking the turmoil in her stomach. The breakup had been brutal, leaving her hollowed out. She hugged herself tightly, as if to contain the fragments of her heart.

A familiar voice called out, "Sarah? Is that you?" She looked up, recognizing Mark, the boy who'd once stolen her lunch money and spread rumors. He stood there, holding a clipboard and looking remarkably composed.

"I, uh… I saw you from my office window. You look… down," Mark offered. "I’m a therapist, actually. Been doing it for a few years now. Maybe you could use someone to talk to." The offer hung in the crisp air, a strange mix of dread and reluctant curiosity. She had to swallow the lump in her throat before answering.