Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the listing's photos felt like a slap in the face. The interior shots, sanitized and devoid of personality, triggered a surge of resentment. He felt the familiar pull of inadequacy, the feeling of not being capable of living in a world so new and so demanding. He needed his safe space.

His small, rented room felt even smaller than usual. He had a hard time getting out of bed this morning. His mind, usually a hive of activity, now felt sluggish, stuck. The thought of making a decision, any decision, filled him with dread. He stared at his phone, his fingers hovering over the contact list, but he didn't call anyone.

He just wanted someone to tell him what to do. The ache was a physical thing, a constant pressure in his chest.