Gemotions

The park was a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, children laughing and dogs chasing frisbees. But for David, it was a landscape of suspicion. He sat on a bench, hidden in the shadows of an oak tree, watching Chloe. He knew she had a new boyfriend. He needed to see him, up close. He felt he needed to know if this man was… worthy.

He'd tried to talk to her a few weeks ago, at a bookstore. She'd looked at him as though he was a complete stranger. She’d even seemed annoyed at the interruption. The dismissal cut deep.

He saw them laughing, holding hands. He felt a burning in his chest. He clenched his fists, trying to contain the rage. He stayed put. He waited. He watched. He had to remain, unseen, until he understood everything. He studied the man, assessing his every movement, his every gesture.