Gemotions

The day began poorly, and it only got worse. A dropped coffee, a missed bus, and a scathing email from his boss. He felt a constant pressure in his temples, a dull, throbbing ache that wouldn't abate. Then, the earth-shattering crack.

The towering pine in his neighbor's yard, a symbol of stability, now lay prone. The sight brought a sharp pang of something akin to despair.

He knew he should offer help, but his feet were heavy, his spirit low. The world seemed to be closing in, shrinking the spaces around him.

The neighbor, a kind, elderly woman, looked stunned, her face pale. She shook her head slowly, murmuring under her breath.

He just stood there.

"Just my luck," she said, her voice trembling. "Just my luck."