Gemotions

The afternoon sun streamed through the blinds, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Evelyn sat frozen, staring at the pages of "Echoes of Us." The words, penned by her husband, Michael, reverberated in her mind. His portrayal of her was a stranger, a caricature, and an embodiment of all her deepest anxieties.

She jumped up, and began to pace, her steps quick and jerky. She reread passages, then stopped, pacing again. She needed a drink. She needed to distance herself from the words. Her heart raced, her breath came in shallow, uneven gasps.

She went to the sink, and splashed water on her face. The cold shock offered only momentary relief. She couldn't breathe. What had she done?