Gemotions

The email was curt, from the apartment manager: “Noise complaints. Loud late-night conversations. Please adjust your volume.” David slumped in his chair, feeling a sinking sensation in his gut.

He knew who it was. The elderly couple next door. They always seemed to be watching him, even when he couldn’t see them. He imagined them, listening through the walls, their faces pinched with disapproval.

He stood and walked towards the volume control of his TV, the click of the remote echoing in the sudden silence. He went to bed early that night.