Gemotions

The glint of the sun off the private helicopter landing on Mrs. Gable's pristine lawn stung Ethan's eyes. He hadn't known what to make of the quiet, slightly frumpy woman who always offered him leftover baked goods. The constant trips to the thrift store always gave Ethan a sense of self-assurance. He was doing well. He thought.

He recalled his recent complaints about his car's failing brakes and the cost of a new fridge. His voice seemed to echo in his ears. What was he even doing?

Later that day, he deliberately avoided her gaze as he passed her on the street, feigning absorption in his phone. The easy camaraderie they had shared was gone. He felt the sting of a deep unease, a hollowness that even his own accomplishments couldn't fill.