Gemotions

The sunlight streaming through the stained-glass window of the church felt oppressive against Eleanor's skin. She sat stiffly in the pew, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, knuckles white. Her daughter, Maya, had announced her intention to become a Buddhist just moments before their father, eyes shining with a joy that seemed to pierce his heart. Eleanor struggled to maintain composure, her chest tight, and her breath catching in her throat. The familiar hymns now sounded alien, mocking. She focused on the intricate patterns of the window to stop from crumbling right there in the church.