Gemotions

The world felt muted. Colors seemed less vibrant, sounds distant. A leaden cloak seemed to drape over everything. Michael hadn't bothered to shave in days, and the days were all bleeding into one indistinguishable stretch. His sister, Sarah, had brought over his niece, Chloe, earlier. Chloe had left behind a crayon drawing of a smiling cat wearing a crown. Michael knew who it was immediately. King Fluffernutter. He'd forgotten all about him, his old imaginary friend.

The drawing now lay on the coffee table, a cruel reminder of a time when laughter came easily. He picked it up, tracing the crude lines with a trembling finger. He hadn't felt right since… well, since everything. He put the drawing back down and sighed, the very air around him feeling stagnant.