Gemotions

The completed fence stood stark and new, a barrier that seemed to define his world. He stood on his porch, staring at the perfectly constructed lines. It seemed to judge him, to highlight his own flaws and imperfections.

He felt a profound sense of isolation. The world felt distant, muted. The joy others seemed to experience was a mystery to him, a language he no longer understood.

He hadn’t spoken to anyone in days. Even his own reflection seemed a stranger. The silence of the afternoon was oppressive, broken only by the chirping of birds he couldn't bring himself to enjoy.

He took a step back inside, the door closing with a dull thud, and shut himself away.