Gemotions

The car keys felt heavy in Amelia's hand. She gripped them so hard her knuckles were white. The sunlight glinting off the polished metal felt hostile. She walked slowly towards her car, each step an effort. Her shoulders slumped, and her jaw was set. The cheerful chatter of the neighborhood children playing in the park across the street grated on her ears.

Inside the car, the leather seats seemed cold. She sat for a long time, not starting the engine, just staring blankly at the steering wheel. The air felt thick, stifling. She had to take a deep breath to avoid panic rising in her chest.