Gemotions

The phone felt heavy in Elena's hand. The screen glowed, mocking her. She could feel the stares of everyone around her, even though she knew it was all in her head. The familiar cafe, usually a place of comfort, had become a prison.

She forced a smile at the barista, the effort exhausting. The taste of the latte was metallic, and she put the cup down. Each sound, each conversation, grated on her nerves. She felt like a trapped animal.

She had to leave. She stood up abruptly, knocking over her chair. Apologizing profusely, she hurried out of the cafe and walked, eyes down, into the bustling street.