Gemotions

He stared at the card, the words "Happy Birthday" printed in a cheerful font. It felt out of place. His birthday had always been a source of anxiety, a yearly reminder of unfulfilled dreams.

He walked over to the window and looked out at the bustling street below, watching people going about their lives. He felt disconnected, like an observer in his own existence.

He opened the card and the silence of the apartment seemed to intensify. He pictured himself ten years from now, with all the same regrets. He closed the card, the feeling of emptiness a familiar companion.