Gemotions

The listing appeared as a mocking reflection of all he lacked. John scrolled through the pictures of his old house, a knot forming in his stomach. The bright, airy rooms and modern features were a stark contrast to his own cramped apartment.

His wife, Maria, noticed his silence. "What's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing," he said, turning away from her gaze. He felt a sudden, sharp sting of resentment, a feeling he wasn't sure how to process. He picked up his coat. "I'm going for a walk."

He needed to be outside, away from the reminder of what he didn't have. He walked for hours, the image of the house seared into his memory. He felt a deep, unspoken ache.