Gemotions

"Condo?" Mark repeated, staring at the landlord, his voice a bewildered rasp. The man, a sweaty, anxious type, simply nodded, avoiding eye contact. Mark’s head was a swirling vortex of confusion. He’d just signed a new lease last month! He felt a prickle of sweat on his palms. He didn't understand why, and he didn't know what to do.

He retreated to his apartment, the elevator’s slow ascent a torture. He felt a throbbing ache behind his eyes. He flopped onto his couch, the cushions suddenly rough against his skin. His gaze drifted around the room, settling on the worn books on his shelf. Did he own any of this? Did any of this even matter now? He ran a hand through his hair, a frantic gesture of helplessness.