Gemotions

The sunlight streaming into the hidden attic room felt like a spotlight on Leo's inadequacy. He’d discovered it by bumping his head against what he thought was a solid wall in the spare bedroom closet. It was all a complete mystery. His colleague, Peter, had just announced his engagement, complete with a lavish ring and a pre-existing trust fund. Leo, on the other hand, had a leaky roof and now, this space filled with old, forgotten belongings.

He pushed the door open, his shoulders slumped. The room was crammed with trunks, furniture shrouded in white sheets, and dusty portraits. Peter had a life that always seemed to click into place, a life that was constantly on the upswing. Leo ran his hand across the faded fabric of a draped chair, a knot forming in his stomach.

"Of course," he muttered, his voice flat. He felt a deep longing for a life that was even remotely as easy.