Gemotions

The news arrived via a mutual friend: a published biography. Michael, sitting in the park, felt the air suddenly become heavy. He’d loved this place, the vibrant green of the trees, the chatter of children. Now, everything seemed muted, gray.

He felt a deep, profound sense of invasion. His skin prickled. He balled his hands into fists. A dog barked in the distance, but the sound seemed to echo distantly.

He got to his feet, abruptly, and started walking, aimlessly at first, then with increasing speed. He passed the playground, avoiding eye contact with the children. The joy he usually felt here was replaced with a sense of dread.