Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the storm brewing inside him. Mark stared at the blur of the neighbor’s dog, a scruffy terrier mix, darting across his back garden. He should go out and shoo it away, but the thought felt exhausting. He was utterly devoid of motivation. The damp chill permeated his bones, a feeling that had settled into his soul.

He sat back in his armchair, the fabric worn and familiar. He had nothing to do. The silence of the house pressed in on him, heavy and suffocating. A forgotten book lay on the table, its pages filled with stories of adventure. He usually loved reading, but tonight, even the most captivating narrative seemed beyond his reach. He longed for something he couldn't name.

He reached for the remote, switching on the TV, unable to focus on anything.