Gemotions

The email arrived, subject: "Let's grab a bite!" Sarah stared at it, her vision blurring. She’d always assumed "BookwormBelle" lived miles away, a comforting distance. Now, the invitation to a restaurant down the street felt like an ambush. She let out a shaky breath.

Her breath hitched as she visualized the scene. She spent the next hour cleaning her apartment, a frantic attempt to create a sense of control. She attacked the dust bunnies with a vengeance, the monotonous action a welcome distraction.

Later, she found herself staring into the mirror, scrutinizing every detail of her face. She felt a knot in her stomach. Would she be able to be herself, the real Sarah, or would she freeze up? She took another deep breath, trying to calm the hammering in her chest.