Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow, stealing the air from Marcus's lungs. He’d driven past the restaurant every day for the last ten years, a reassuring beacon in the chaos of his life. He felt a sudden, profound sense of loss, a void opening in his routine. He pressed his fingers against his temples, trying to ward off a headache.

He wandered through his apartment, restless, unable to settle. He glanced at the calendar; Tuesday, the day he always went. He let out a long, slow sigh. He considered calling his sister, but the thought felt too exhausting. He turned on the television, aimlessly flipping channels, the glowing screen reflecting his own blank expression.