Gemotions

The elevator ride felt interminable. Amelia stared at the numbers as they slowly ticked down, each floor a step closer to a new, uncertain future. The notice, securely tucked into her purse, felt like a burning coal against her skin.

She stepped out into the lobby, her legs shaky. She wanted to scream, to rail against the injustice of it all. But she bit back the urge, forcing herself to walk calmly to the exit.

She needed to get away, to breathe fresh air, to clear her head. The world outside, usually vibrant and welcoming, now seemed threatening.