Gemotions

The sheer size of the swimming pool was what did it. Brian had always known the Kingsleys were better off than he was, but the pool, with its cascading waterfall and meticulously landscaped surroundings, was a declaration of wealth. A loud one. He felt a sense of disquiet, a cold sweat creeping up his spine.

He started listening in on conversations, trying to catch snippets of what they were saying, looking for clues. Every sound from their yard, the laughter, the splashing, felt like a deliberate taunt.

He avoided his own backyard, preferring the relative safety of his cramped living room. Every shadow, every movement outside, sent a jolt of anxiety through him. He felt as if he were being watched, judged, and somehow, threatened.