Gemotions

The hospital waiting room was a sea of worried faces. Emily clutched her chart, her fingers digging into the paper. This was where she received her treatment. Her eyes darted around the room, avoiding contact with anyone.

She saw him, sitting across from her, his posture tight, his gaze fixed on the floor. She had seen him a few times before, and they had barely acknowledged each other. The unspoken recognition was painful, a constant reminder of their shared vulnerability.

She knew she should say something, offer a word of comfort, but the words caught in her throat. She remained silent, both of them trapped in a prison of fear and self-consciousness.