Gemotions

He read the words, his lips thinning into a tight line. He felt the blood drain from his face. The landlord was kicking him out. This time. He felt the familiar ache of shame. He hated being in this position. He hated relying on her.

The apartment suddenly felt cold. The sunlight was too bright, the shadows too long. He crossed his arms, huddling inward. He felt utterly inadequate, and it spread quickly to every facet of his being. He would never be able to sort this out himself.

He opened his mouth to speak, but the words wouldn't come. Instead, he reached for his phone, scrolling through contacts, looking for reassurance, for something that would soothe this. He would wait.