Gemotions

Sarah stared at the ceiling, the patterns of the stucco a blurry dance in her unfocused gaze. Sleep was a treacherous land, one where the shadows of her own thoughts chased her relentlessly. The weight in her chest made breathing a conscious effort. Her phone buzzed; it was Emily. Emily had just got her promotion, and was eager to celebrate. Sarah had agreed to meet her for drinks.

She pulled herself out of bed, each movement slow and deliberate, as if wading through thick syrup. The world felt muffled, the colors muted. At the bar, Emily was already there, bubbly and animated, recounting the challenges of her new role at "Global Financial Solutions."

Sarah, who was sitting across the table, took a sip of her water. As Emily went to the bathroom, Sarah's eyes fell on Emily's bag. It was placed next to her seat. A small notepad peeked out, with "Community Outreach" written on the front.