Gemotions

The heat of the afternoon sun pressed down on Ethan as he walked aimlessly through the park. He felt the familiar slow burn in his legs, a physical manifestation of his internal state. He kicked a stray pebble, sending it skittering across the cracked pavement. He'd noticed Mr. Sterling, his neighbor, driving a Ferrari, as well as the lavish vacation photos his daughter, posted on social media. Ethan didn't even have enough money to fix his leaky faucet.

The laughter of children on the swings grated on his ears. He wasn't hungry, not thirsty, just… heavy. Each breath felt like an unnecessary burden. The vibrant hues of the park seemed to mock his own monochrome existence.

He leaned against a tree, its rough bark a cold reminder of the world’s indifference. He closed his eyes, hoping for something, anything, to pierce the fog that clouded his mind.