The character experiences a profound emotional dislocation following Michaela's departure, feeling untethered and questioning the meaning of life. Her absence creates a deep void, amplifying his desire to escape from the pain. The impact of her leaving is so significant that it leaves him feeling as if the world has lost its balance, shifting the very perspective from which he views life.
The day spent at the gallery seems surreal to him, resembling a dream that feels distant and unattainable. This moment encapsulates the weight of his emotions and the disorientation that follows a poignant connection, forcing him to reflect on the transformative power of human relationships and the profound sense of loss that can accompany them.