Gemotions

The newspaper lay open on the kitchen counter, the headline screaming at him. Another apartment building joining the condo craze. He felt a dull throb behind his eyes. He’d barely slept last night, tossing and turning with the familiar weight of anxieties.

He let the kettle boil dry as he stared out the window, watching the city wake up. The morning light cast long shadows, making him feel even smaller. He ran a hand through his hair, the strands matted and unkempt.

He needed to eat. He should probably start looking for a new place. The list of things he should do felt overwhelming. His muscles were stiff as he turned away from the window, and every movement felt like an effort.