Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the yard as he trudged out to retrieve the mail. The envelope bearing the city seal felt heavy in his hand. It was the notice for Mr. Davies' fence permit.

He could barely muster the strength to open it. He shuffled back towards the house, his steps slow and deliberate.

Each movement felt like an exercise in futility. He dropped the envelope onto the counter, his gaze drifting to the silent television. He just wanted to vanish, to be swallowed up by the silence.