Gemotions

The party. He tried to keep it down, but it went on late. The next morning, a knock on the door, and the elderly lady from across the hall was standing there, her face a mask of disappointment. "It was very loud," she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly.

He stammered an apology. Guilt gnawed at him. He felt the weight of her judgment. Every laugh from the night before now felt like a cruel intrusion.

He retreated into his apartment, feeling exposed, on display. Even the sunlight streaming through the windows felt intrusive, as if it was highlighting his misdeeds.