Gemotions

Michael slumped in his car, the leather cold against his back. He’d seen the pay stub, accidentally left on the printer. Jessica, the new intern, earned more than him. He hadn’t felt this hollowed out in years. The drive home was a blur.

The small studio apartment felt cavernous. He ate dinner alone, the food tasting like ash. He flicked through the channels on the television, finding nothing that held his attention. He missed the shared meals with his family, the easy banter.

He stood in the middle of his living room and stretched. The silence pressed against him. He felt the familiar weight of isolation settle over him, heavy as a shroud. His eyes stung.