Gemotions

The landlord’s words echoed in his ears, each syllable a brutal blow. Liam sat on the edge of the bed, the mattress sagging beneath him. The sunlight streaming through the window seemed to mock him, highlighting the dust motes dancing in the air. He felt a hollowness in his chest, an emptiness that spread through his limbs like a slow poison.

He picked up a chipped mug from the bedside table, running his thumb over the jagged edge. His gaze drifted to the framed photograph of his late wife, her laughter now a distant memory. He felt a sharp pang in his heart. He felt his face heat, a stinging sensation behind his eyes.

“Just… gone,” he rasped, his voice rough with unshed tears.