Gemotions

The rhythmic click-clack of the train tracks lulled Michael into a state of relaxed contemplation as he gazed out the window. The rolling hills of the countryside blurred past, a calming backdrop to his thoughts. He’d been looking forward to this trip for weeks. He was finally going to visit Liam, his best friend, who he was sure had been making a killing as an investment banker, the perfect career to start a family.

He arrived at Liam's apartment building, the lobby gleaming, and rode the elevator to the penthouse suite, a space he knew, from Liam’s stories, was a testament to his success. He grinned, anticipating the evening of great food and maybe even a celebratory cigar.

Liam opened the door, a thin, almost skeletal figure in a stained t-shirt. The apartment was sparsely furnished, and the only light came from a flickering television screen. "Hey, man," Liam said, his voice hesitant, "Glad you're here." The atmosphere shifted, the carefree anticipation evaporating with each passing second.