Gemotions

The card, a childish drawing of a cake, felt heavy in his hand, a weight of meaningless obligation. He didn't know the sender, but he knew they expected him to respond. He felt a sharp pang of annoyance, a sudden desire for privacy.

He tore the card in half, then again, his movements precise and controlled. He threw the pieces into the recycling bin, the sound of the paper a satisfying crunch. He felt a moment of calm, as if he had freed himself from a burden.

He turned and went back inside, the empty mailbox a silent testament to the absurdity of the gesture. He had work to do, and he would not let the intrusion disrupt it.