Gemotions

The tiny apartment felt smaller than usual, the walls seemingly closing in on him. He picked at a loose thread on the ancient armchair, his fingers fidgeting relentlessly. His sister, Jessica, was excitedly explaining her newfound faith in the Baháʼí Faith, her words flowing like a river he couldn't quite navigate. A vein pulsed in his forehead.

He stared at the intricate, colorful rug, trying to find some semblance of calm in the geometric patterns. His jaw was clenched, his teeth grinding together. He had been planning to introduce Jessica to his new girlfriend, but he could no longer see that happening. He felt a deep sense of betrayal.

“So… you just… you just decided this?” he finally managed to ask, his voice tight and constricted.

Jessica beamed. “It was a spiritual awakening, Liam! I feel reborn!”

He just nodded stiffly, the room starting to spin.