Gemotions

From his cramped apartment, Leo stared at the application confirmation email. Another day, another interview, the same job as Sarah. He ran a hand through his hair, the action feeling slow and deliberate, like a time-lapse of a plant unfurling. The coffee he brewed tasted weak, and the aroma, normally a morning pick-me-up, did nothing to rouse him.

He barely made it through his usual pre-interview ritual, the shower lukewarm, the shave sloppy. The tie he picked out felt restrictive, the collar digging into his neck.

He considered cancelling, just staying. But the thought of disappointing his family, of being a failure, forced him out the door. The city air felt thick, each breath a struggle.