Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the hospital cafeteria, mirroring the downpour in Arthur's chest. He stabbed at the lukewarm mashed potatoes, not even bothering to look at his plate. The nurse’s revelation, a mumbled apology and a sheaf of papers, had landed like a physical blow. Apparently, his records, the ones detailing his perfectly healthy heart, were someone else's, riddled with pre-existing conditions. He felt a throbbing ache behind his eyes, a weight pressing down on him. This was wrong, all of it.

He pushed his tray away, the metallic clatter echoing in the nearly empty room. The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, a persistent irritation. He needed air, needed to be away from the sterile scent of antiseptic and the hushed whispers of the medical staff.

He trudged towards the exit, his shoulders slumped, each step feeling heavier than the last. He just wanted to be left alone.