Gemotions

The house seemed to breathe down on Leo, the silence amplifying the incessant whirring of the refrigerator. He’d spent the morning staring out the window, watching the world move on without him. Today was his birthday.

The mail arrived. He trudged outside, the simple act of retrieving the mail feeling like a monumental effort. Amongst the clutter was a birthday card, decorated with a vibrant, celebratory design. No name on the front.

He opened the card. “Thinking of you on your special day.” was the simple, handwritten message. He read the words repeatedly. He thought about the person, whoever they were. He thought about his situation. He felt a deep, pervasive sense of emptiness. He crumpled the card, then let his arms fall limp to his sides.