Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the bakery, usually a source of comfort for Jasper. But today, the familiar scent did little to soothe the tightness in his chest. His intricate, whimsical illustrations of animals, originally created for children's books, were now emblazoned across a man's back.

He forced a smile for a customer, his voice sounding hollow. He carefully arranged the pastries, each movement a deliberate act. The joy he once found in his craft had vanished, replaced by a hollow ache.

He retreated to the back room, the space usually filled with the warmth of the oven, but now felt cold. The bread, in its perfection, held no allure. He watched his hands, seeing them as alien objects.