Gemotions

The newspaper lay crumpled on the floor, the ink staining the already grimy carpet. He'd been looking forward to this job, really looking forward to it. Now, it was just another missed opportunity. He felt the familiar tightness in his chest as he thought about how he had given the interview his all, and how Sarah had to do the same.

He had expected the call, the email, anything. Nothing. Just the crushing weight of silence, the emptiness in his stomach. He kicked at a stray piece of paper, sending it skittering across the floor.

He avoided his reflection in the hallway mirror, not wanting to see the disappointment etched on his face. The house felt too bright, too loud, even though he knew he was alone. The energy that Sarah had possessed, was long gone.

He pulled out a cigarette, even though he had been trying to quit. The smoke did nothing to soothe the tension.