Gentle Spring Breeze

The light that had been blazing in Ryu's gaze dimmed. Something that even the Heavens above couldn't accomplish was done by the single action of a single woman. It felt as though everything in his heart was being hollowed out, a sinking feeling pouring into his gut followed by a slowing of his blood and heart. 

Ryu suddenly became hyperaware of the rhythm of his breathing and chest. It was hard to breathe as though a stone rested on his lungs, refusing to allow him a deep breath. Every beat of his heart was like a wave of pangs coursing through his veins. It was like something was twisting his insides up. 

From the outside, it felt almost impossible to tell that something was going on. It looked as though Ryu had gazed toward a newcomer and said newcomer walked by him. There were no sparks nor were there any fireworks. It was too difficult to tell just how pale Ryu's face had become given its usual complexion.