Gemotions

He found the flyer crumpled on the floor of the lobby, tossed aside like a piece of refuse. Martin picked it up, smoothing the edges with a trembling hand. The news hit him like a physical blow, leaving him with a hollow feeling in his stomach. The building, his refuge, his sanctuary, now seemed tainted.

He hadn't been sleeping well lately. The city’s noises, which used to lull him to sleep, were currently irritating him. He had taken to pacing his small apartment at night, running his hands through his already thinning hair.

He considered calling his sister. But the thought made him tired. He wasn't sure he had the will to explain, to pretend he was coping, to offer a forced smile. Instead, he retreated into his apartment, closing the door softly behind him.