Gemotions

The bustling marketplace, normally a source of comfort, now felt like a taunt. The vibrant colours and enticing smells seemed distant, even unreal. Liam watched his friend, Ben, who’d constantly talked about being a real estate agent. Today, Liam had seen him selling knock-off watches at a stall. A shiver ran down his spine, a coldness that had nothing to do with the winter air.

He wandered through the crowded lanes, feeling a disconnect from the cheerful vendors and chattering shoppers. The weight of his own thoughts pressed down on him, turning the air thick and heavy. He paused at a fruit stall, staring at the perfectly arranged apples, but found no appetite.