Gemotions

The crisp autumn air did little to cool the heat rising in her chest. She held the wallet so tightly her fingers ached. Found it near the park, right by the swingset. The money—a life-altering amount—burned a hole in her pocket.

She found herself avoiding eye contact with everyone. Even the chirping of birds seemed accusatory. She wanted to vanish, to disappear into the swirling leaves that skittered across the sidewalk.

She imagined the owner's despair, the panic they must be feeling. That thought twisted in her stomach, making it hard to breathe. The weight of the responsibility felt crushing.