Gemotions

The website's cheery photos mocked him. Crisp sunlight, manicured lawn, the porch swing swaying gently. He closed the laptop, the sudden darkness a physical relief. A knot tightened in his stomach, a familiar unwelcome guest. He hadn't slept well in weeks.

He went to the fridge, stared at the leftovers. Nothing appealed. He slammed the door shut, the sound echoing in the empty apartment. He’d skipped dinner the night before, too. Just the dull ache in his chest now, a constant companion.

He wandered to the window, the city lights blurred and insignificant. The house… it felt like a ghost. A happy, laughing ghost, taunting him with memories he couldn't quite reach.