Gemotions

The drumming from the apartment below seemed to penetrate through the floorboards. She had been staring at the wall for what seemed like hours, a blank void that reflected her inner state. The energy had drained out of her, leaving her feeling like a husk.

A firm rap on the door. It was Mr. Chen, his expression stern. “Can you… control the volume?” His voice was a low growl.

She offered a weak smile, barely able to lift her lips. “Of course,” she said, her voice a mere whisper. She returned to the sofa, and collapsed, the silence now deafening.