Gemotions

The sterile scent of the airport restroom seemed to cling to him as Leo stared at his reflection. His son’s first baseball game. He’d promised. The missed opportunity felt like a physical blow, a heavy weight in his gut. The suit he’d carefully selected felt like a costume, ill-fitting and absurd. He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture conveying a profound sense of inadequacy. He texted his son a brief, clumsy message, knowing it wouldn't bridge the chasm that had opened between them.