Gemotions

The drive back to his childhood home had been a blur. Now he stood in the doorway, observing his parents. Their efforts to accommodate him felt like a performance. He forced a smile.

He found himself avoiding eye contact, afraid that someone would see the storm brewing beneath the surface. He went for a walk, feeling the wind against his face, but the air did not bring the clarity he sought.

The world seemed bright, too bright, mocking his internal darkness. He returned, feeling smaller, more isolated than before. The house was full of warmth, but he couldn't feel it.