Gemotions

The old bookstore’s atmosphere felt particularly oppressive to James today. He’d grabbed a copy of *Don Quixote*, needing a distraction from the dull ache of his existence. A carefully folded photograph fell out, landing silently on the table.

The photo showed a group of people, smiling and laughing, clearly enjoying each other's company. James felt a bitter twist in his gut. They looked so carefree, so connected, a joy he had never experienced in his own life. His face twisted.

He stared at the photo, then at the book, feeling a rising tide of fury. It wasn’t fair. He deserved that life, too. He took a deep breath, replacing the photograph, slamming the book shut. The sound was a harsh explosion in the quiet shop, a declaration of his frustration.