Gemotions

The phone slipped from David's numb fingers and clattered onto the hardwood floor. He didn't bother to pick it up. The building was becoming condos. He had seen the notice. He had read the email. He had processed the news. And yet, the reality of it felt unreal. He crossed his arms and tucked his chin to his chest.

He ran his tongue over his dry lips. He found himself replaying past conversations, the pleasantries exchanged with neighbors in the hallway, the casual invitations to share coffee. All gone. He felt the sting of regret for all the unspoken words, all the missed opportunities.

The silence of his apartment pressed in on him, a heavy weight. He was alone.