Gemotions

The stale air of the hospital waiting room felt thick and heavy. John ran a hand through his hair, his eyes red-rimmed from lack of sleep. His mother was gravely ill, and the medical bills were astronomical. He was running out of options.

He found it beneath the vending machine: a wallet, stuffed with crisp banknotes. He picked it up, his hand shaking. He thought of his mother.

A cold sweat broke out on his forehead. The weight of his predicament felt almost unbearable. The decision felt impossible.