Gemotions

He stared at his reflection in the bathroom mirror. The words of the investigator echoed in his mind, like a bad song stuck on repeat. He splashed cold water on his face, but it didn't help. The image staring back at him felt unfamiliar.

He went to the living room and sat in his favorite chair. He reached for the remote but dropped it with a clatter. It landed on the floor. He didn't bother to pick it up. The news was on, but he couldn't concentrate on it.

A coldness settled in his chest, making it difficult to breathe. He stood up abruptly and started pacing, his steps erratic. The walls seemed to be closing in, the air growing thick and heavy. He felt a desperate need to leave, to get away.