Gemotions

He’d imagined this, of course. David knew this moment might come. But now it was here, standing on the threshold of his parents' house, and it felt surreal. His stomach clenched. He'd believed he was building a life, a career, an identity. He’d thought he’d be successful, a model for others.

He ran a hand across his forehead, wiping away a sudden, inexplicable bead of sweat. The living room was exactly as he remembered it, the same floral wallpaper, the same uncomfortable couch. His father gave him a hearty slap on the back, a gesture that used to fill him with warmth, but now felt jarring.

He forced a smile. "Great to be back." But the words felt hollow in his mouth.