Gemotions

The ad popped up during a late-night scroll. He almost didn't recognize it. The listing photo, all bright sunlight and freshly mown grass, felt alien. He clicked the link, fingers numb.

His breath hitched in his chest as he scrolled through the pictures. The living room, once a battlefield of strewn toys and forgotten homework, now boasted tasteful, minimalist furniture. The paint, a cheerful yellow once, was now a cool, sterile grey. He felt a deep ache settle in his stomach, a lead weight pulling him down.

He slammed his laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in the silence of his apartment. He reached for the half-empty bottle of whiskey on his nightstand, his hand shaking slightly as he poured himself a generous measure. The liquid burned, but it didn't ease the gnawing emptiness.