Gemotions

The dog's playful bark grated on David's ears. He shifted from foot to foot, avoiding eye contact with Mr. Harrison, his face burning with a shame he couldn't hide. The electricity bill was overdue, and the power company’s automated voice still rang in his ears.

He ran a hand through his already disheveled hair, the gesture more frantic than it should be. The proposal, for a small garden plot, felt like a deliberate act of cruelty. He wanted to scream, to lash out, but the fear of consequences kept him rooted to the spot.

“Yeah, sure,” he mumbled, his voice hoarse. He watched Mr. Harrison, full of cheerful expectation, his smile a stark contrast to the darkness that was engulfing him. He felt powerless, trapped, and utterly alone.