Gemotions

The text message blurred in Elias’s vision. Across the country? He reread the words from his phone, a dull ache settling in his temples. He just wanted to stay in bed. The sheets felt infinitely more appealing than the impending doom of change. He considered ignoring the message, letting it fester unanswered.

His best friend, Daniel, was leaving. There was a knot in Elias’s stomach, a feeling of not wanting to do anything. He let his phone fall from his grip, letting it land on the bed. Everything seemed to require far too much effort. He thought about the mountain of unwashed dishes piling up in the sink.

He knew he should respond, maybe offer some kind words. Instead, he stared blankly at the ceiling, the sound of the world outside a distant hum. The thought of any conversation, any planning, felt like an insurmountable hurdle.