Gemotions

The news hit Clara like a physical blow. She stood in the middle of her kitchen, the half-baked cake a testament to her failed anticipation. The oven timer beeped, but she made no move to turn it off.

She felt a wave of nausea. Her stomach churned. The vibrant colors of the kitchen seemed to have faded to a dull gray. The thought of eating, of doing anything, seemed impossible.

She sank to the floor, her back against the cool tile. The cancellation felt like a personal rejection, a confirmation of her deepest fears. Everything felt bleak, hopeless.