Gemotions

The library, his usual refuge, offered little solace today. Ethan had chosen a copy of *Hamlet*, hoping to lose himself in the familiar tragedy. Instead, a brightly colored postcard slipped out, landing on the table with a soft thud.

The postcard showed a tropical beach, the turquoise water and sun-drenched sand a stark contrast to the gloom of the library. It was a vacation photo, signed with a cheerful note. Ethan felt a familiar clench in his stomach. The card was from a former acquaintance, a person who always seemed to have everything, a life he wanted, but could not have.

He looked at the image, then back at the book, his jaw tightening. He didn't deserve any of this. He wasn't even able to find a moment of peace. The postcard felt like a deliberate jab, a reminder of his own perceived failings. Ethan tossed the book aside, the feeling rising in his chest.