Gemotions

Leo stared at the notice, his vision blurring. He blinked rapidly, trying to clear his head. His palms were slick. He dropped the flyer, a crumpled ball falling on the floor.

He reached for a cigarette, his hands shaking so violently that he fumbled with the lighter. He inhaled deeply, the smoke stinging his lungs. He hadn’t smoked in months, and he usually felt better. Now he needed it.

He imagined the construction crews tearing into the building, the sounds of jackhammers and drills. He squeezed his eyes shut. His whole body felt tight, constricted.