Gemotions

The brightly colored flyer, announcing the condo conversion, felt like a slap in the face. It was the end of an era, a community. Mark had always been a loud complainer, but deep down, he cared. He felt a deep sting of loss, like a wound that wouldn't close.

He slammed his fist on the kitchen table, the sudden noise shocking even himself. He began to replay everything in his head, the parties he didn't attend, the events he never bothered to go to. He regretted his cynicism, his self-absorption. He wished he'd been a better neighbor, a more supportive friend.

He decided to go to the tenant meeting, even though he had planned to stay home. He went early and took a seat in the back. He felt his face heat.