Gemotions

The silence, once a solace, now felt oppressive. Since the upstairs neighbors moved in, it was a constant battle of wills. It was the thump of the music that shattered the peaceful sanctuary of his home. It would start with a low, barely perceptible rumble, slowly building into a monstrous crescendo.

His jaw tightened. He found himself picking at the skin around his fingernails, a habit he hadn't indulged in years. The air in the room felt heavy, and it was hard to breathe. He stared at the ceiling, trying to locate the source of the noise. It was futile.

He imagined the confrontation: the awkward silence, the tense exchange. He stood slowly, his legs feeling heavy, and forced himself towards the door.