Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the storm brewing inside him. Mark paced the living room, his bare feet silent on the hardwood floor. The echo of the whispered phone conversation still rang in his ears, a fragmented phrase that had sliced through the quiet evening. *"I miss you."* He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. It felt as though his chest was constricting. He stopped abruptly, staring at the closed bedroom door. The handle gleamed under the dim light, beckoning and repelling him at the same time. He turned away, needing air. He reached for his jacket, the fabric rough against his skin.