Gemotions

The ocean's rhythmic pulse soothed Leo. He watched the waves crash against the shore, each surge and retreat a slow, steady breath. The salty air filled his lungs, a cool, invigorating balm. He had come to the beach seeking solace, and found it.

A wave crashed a bit too close to shore, soaking a letter that had been left in a bag on the beach. He shook it off and read the words. Words of regret, reaching across time.

He felt a curious lightness in his stomach, as if gravity had lessened. He didn't feel rage or sadness. Only a strange kind of calm washed over him, a sense of having been unbound. He watched the seagulls circle overhead, their cries echoing in the vast, open space.