Gemotions

The constant presence of his parents felt like a tightening noose. Mark tried to avoid them, spending hours locked in his old bedroom. He felt the familiar weight of disappointment. The world outside, full of vibrant possibilities, felt miles away, unreachable.

He stared at the ceiling, the familiar popcorn texture blurring into a meaningless pattern. The walls seemed to close in on him, the air thick with unspoken expectations. He felt a constant ache, a dull throb of frustration.

His mother knocked on his door, her voice hesitant. He didn't respond. He simply curled into a ball, trying to disappear. He felt the full force of his inadequacy.