Gemotions

"Condo conversion," Liam muttered, the words tasting like ash in his mouth. He gripped the edge of the flimsy paper notice, its edges already curling in his trembling hand. He’d poured years into this place, transforming the cramped space into a sanctuary. He’d painted the walls himself, planted the climbing roses that now threatened to consume the fire escape.

He slammed the door shut, the sound echoing in the empty hallway. His stomach churned. He felt a profound sense of loss, a sinking feeling that had settled deep in his chest.

He wandered through the rooms, touching the surfaces as if saying a silent goodbye. He ran his hand across the rough texture of the reclaimed wood coffee table he had painstakingly built. Every object in the apartment felt infused with memories, now destined to be scattered. He needed to be alone.

He sat on the floor, the floorboards cold beneath him. He looked out the window and let the tears finally come.