Gemotions

The world was muted, the colors drained. I sat on the park bench, watching the children play, but I saw none of it. My mind was still reeling from the news. Someone had patented my automatic dog-walking device, my brilliant, innovative, *mine* – someone else’s now.

I felt a profound lethargy, a heavy cloak draped over me, making every movement a struggle. Even breathing was an effort. The laughter of the children, usually a source of joy, grated on my nerves. Their carefree happiness highlighted my own sense of… incompleteness.

The sun was warm on my skin, but I felt cold, hollow. My hands were trembling, and I tucked them deep into my pockets. I wanted to scream, to lash out, but the words wouldn’t come.