Gemotions

The doctor's office felt cold, both literally and figuratively. Maria pulled her coat tighter around her, a futile attempt to ward off the chill that seemed to emanate from the very walls. The diagnosis had left her feeling stripped, vulnerable.

The other patient, the specialist had mentioned, was waiting at the café. Maria didn't want to go. She wanted to be left alone. She wanted her life back.

But the doctor had insisted, promising some clarity. She threw open the door to the café. The other patient was looking at the window, a look of despair on their face.