Gemotions

"Delayed." The word echoed in her mind, a relentless drumbeat. The adoption. *Their* child. They were promised a new family, a fresh start. The gate monitors became a portal to a nightmare. She felt a sudden, sharp pain in her chest.

She went to the bathroom, and splashed cold water on her face. Her reflection stared back, pale, eyes wide with a fear that mirrored her inner turmoil. She felt the tears begin to fall, and leaned against the cold tiles, the image of their faces haunting her. The wait was unbearable.