Gemotions

The weight of the wallet in his hand felt like a lead brick. His stomach churned. A cold wave washed over him. He was a good man, he told himself. A law-abiding citizen. So why did his heart beat a frantic tattoo against his ribs?

He remembered his eviction notice, his children’s hungry faces. His mind went into a frenzy. Was this a test? A joke? He didn't deserve this. Someone else with less need would surely make the "right" choice. He could not, he told himself.

He tossed it back onto the pavement, his hands trembling. He turned and started walking. The walk was fast, a desperate escape from the scene.