Gemotions

The weight of the unopened envelope pressed down on Thomas's chest. He knew his sister, Sarah, had inherited their parents’ sprawling estate, a place filled with parties and laughter. He was given a tiny, run-down bookstore in a quiet neighborhood.

He walked the streets, the buildings seeming to loom over him. He felt as though he were trapped in a dark, confined space. Sarah would be thrilled. She thrived in social situations. He felt his chest tighten, his breath shallow.

He pictured the bookstore, the smell of old books and the promise of quiet. But he couldn't imagine himself there. He wanted to feel something, anything, but the feeling was out of reach. The world seemed to be fading to gray.