Gemotions

The weight of the overdue bills pressed down on Daniel. Another drawing from Lily, taped to the refrigerator door, depicted the familiar, unsettling form. The eyes, always those unsettling button eyes, seemed to follow him. He hadn't slept properly in days. He ran a hand over his face, feeling the stubble prickle. He felt a constant tension in his shoulders, a rigidness that wouldn't loosen. He'd agreed to this, he’d said it was fine, but the promise of his life outside this small, demanding circle felt further away with each passing day. He poured another cup of coffee, the bitter liquid doing little to soothe his rising panic.