Gemotions

He bounced on the balls of his feet, the eviction notice clutched in his hand. “Well, this is perfect timing!” Leo announced to the empty living room. A burst of laughter escaped him, echoing off the bare walls. He’d been meaning to leave this place for ages. The landlord's poor upkeep and the constant noise of the neighbors had made him restless.

He felt an unfamiliar lightness, as if a great weight had been lifted. He started packing immediately, tossing clothes and belongings into boxes with a renewed vigor. The thought of a fresh start, a different neighborhood, a better apartment—it all fueled him.

He was going to find the perfect place. A place he could call *home*. This time, he’d make sure of it. He hummed a jaunty tune, whistling as he taped up a box, picturing himself in a bright new space.