Gemotions

James slumped back in his armchair, the remote control slipping from his numb fingers. The television flickered, the images meaningless blurs. He had started a documentary, but his attention had long since drifted.

The sound of clanging metal jarred him. He lifted his head. It was Ms. Miller, setting up posts for her new fence. The sunlight was too bright, the sounds too loud.

She popped her head over the fence. "Just thought you'd like to know, James! It’s going in finally!" James managed a weak nod. He felt as though his own body was made of concrete, and the thought of moving felt impossible.