Gemotions

He found himself pacing the perimeter of his living room, a worn path in the carpet marking his restless energy. The knock, sharp and insistent, was like a physical blow. It was Mr. Henderson, his new neighbor, a man overflowing with boisterous cheer. "Just a bit of sunshine, that back corner gets, perfect for zucchini!"

He ran a hand through his already dishevelled hair. The offer, an imposition really, hung in the air. He hadn't left the house in days. The thought of sharing his space, even a small portion of it, with anyone, choked him. "I...I'll have to think about it," he mumbled, his voice a gravelly whisper.

He waited until Mr. Henderson was out of sight, then sank into his armchair, the cushions swallowing him whole. The four walls of his apartment were closing in. He stared at the ceiling, feeling an unbearable weight pressing down on his chest.