Gemotions

The doorbell rang, a sharp, intrusive sound that sliced through the quiet. It was Mrs. Gable from downstairs. He opened the door, a forced smile plastered on his face. She began, her voice a shrill complaint about the "thumping" and "booming" that had kept her up all night. He nodded, trying to appear contrite, but his chest felt constricted. His voice caught in his throat as he mumbled an apology, the words feeling hollow and inadequate. He closed the door, leaning against it, his arms crossed tightly against his body.