Gemotions

He avoided eye contact as his mother proudly showed off the "improvements" she had made to his old room. A new bedspread, freshly painted walls in a color he never would have chosen. Each detail was a reminder of her good intentions, her misguided attempts to make his return comfortable. He felt his stomach clench.

He walked to the window, staring out at the familiar street. The world outside felt vast, open. He was stuck here, in this house, in this carefully constructed prison. He was not happy. He wanted to scream.