Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a source of comfort, now felt like a taunt. Alex stared at the steaming cup, the warmth doing nothing to thaw the icy grip of despair that had taken hold. He’d been looking forward to his morning coffee with a sense of peace, before he saw the text on his girlfriend, Karen's, phone. A declaration of love to another man.

He felt a wave of nausea. He took a sip of the coffee, but it tasted bitter. He felt a profound sense of loss, as if something precious had been stolen from him. The light pouring in through the kitchen window seemed overly bright, making the room feel alien.

He tossed the cup in the sink, then went to the bedroom. He sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the wall. The air felt heavy. He thought about Karen, but could not bring himself to process the reality of the situation. He felt the need to get away.