Gemotions

The gate agent, a harried woman with tired eyes, repeated the same phrase: “We apologize for the inconvenience.” Liam stared at her, not at all comforted. His best friend's surprise birthday party. He had spent weeks planning, coordinating with all of their friends. Now, he was a no-show.

He wandered through the terminal, the constant chatter a dull roar in his ears. He wanted to scream. He looked at other passengers, rushing through their lives, unaware of his internal struggle. He felt isolated.

He retreated to a quiet corner, pulling out his phone. He started a text message. "I'm so sorry. I can't even tell you how much I'm feeling right now. I'm trying to get there, I promise." He stopped, unable to finish. He just couldn't make the words come out.