Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the empty park. John stood by the gate, watching children play. Laughter, once a familiar sound, now felt like a painful reminder of lost innocence. The swing set creaked in the breeze. He turned and walked away.

The words had been on his tongue. They remained unsaid. He had to face him. He had to face his demons.

He pushed open the door to the office, the click of the latch echoing in the sudden silence. He began to feel as though he would be sick.