Gemotions

“Another trip to the Bahamas, eh, Mr. Gable?” Mark called out, attempting a jovial tone as he passed Mr. Gable's driveway. He received a curt nod in response. He’d always regarded the man as just another retiree. Lately, however, Mr. Gable's life appeared to have undergone a significant change. Mark began to wonder if the rumors were true.

Mark returned to his apartment, the building feeling small, stifling. The echoing emptiness of his own place suddenly seemed to intensify. He kicked a discarded newspaper across the floor.

He reached for a glass of water, his hand shaking slightly. The contrast between his life and Mr. Gable’s, the carefree trips, the apparent wealth, made him feel like an extra in someone else’s play.