Gemotions

The book lay open on her lap, the pages untouched. Each sentence, each paragraph, blurred before Maya's eyes. The words seemed to mock her, full of vibrant life, a stark contrast to the hollow ache inside her. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air, a constant, silent reminder of time passing.

The radio played softly in the background, a song about a summer romance, about new beginnings. She flinched, the cheerful melody grating on her nerves. She reached out and turned the volume down until it was a mere whisper.

Her fingers traced the cover of the book, a worn copy of her favourite novel, a story she had read countless times. Even this source of comfort seemed to elude her. The world felt muted, drained of colour. The thought of getting up, of moving, felt like a Herculean task.