Gemotions

The doorbell rang, startling Finn. He had been sprawled on the couch for hours, the television a blurry backdrop to his thoughts. It was Liam, bursting in with an infectious grin and a bag full of party favors. “Ready for Saturday?” he asked.

Finn managed a weak smile. He’d promised to help Liam with the decorations, but the thought filled him with a sense of dread. His limbs felt heavy, and his mind was sluggish.

He watched Liam excitedly unpack the balloons and streamers. Their vibrant colors seemed to mock his lethargy. He mumbled an excuse, saying he needed to grab a glass of water. Anything to get away from the high-octane energy for a moment. He walked to the kitchen, feeling a vague, nameless sense of something he couldn't quite put his finger on, but did want to avoid.