Gemotions

The phone rang, shattering the silence of the shared living room. Michael jumped, dropping the remote control. He scrambled to pick it up, his heart thudding against his ribs. The sound felt like a personal attack.

It was his sister, checking in. Another probing question about his job search, another gentle reminder that he was ‘taking up space’. He forced a smile, his voice strained as he gave a generic response. He was weary of the pity, the concern, the constant reminders of his situation. He rubbed his temples, a dull ache throbbing behind his eyes. He wished the sun would finally set.