Gemotions

The text message – “Big news. Moving to Seattle.” – had landed like a physical blow. Amelia had been staring at the screen for a full five minutes, the words refusing to make sense. She felt the sudden urge to pace, back and forth, the confines of her small apartment closing in. Her breathing came in short, shallow gasps. She had a sudden, overwhelming urge to break something, to scream.

She clutched her phone tighter, the cold metal a small anchor in the swirling chaos. Then, she opened her laptop, the screen reflecting her own stunned expression. She opened her email and then closed it immediately. She opened a document and then shut it without typing. What was she supposed to do now?

The familiar weight of her cat, Mr. Bigglesworth, jumping onto her lap was a small comfort. She stroked his soft fur, trying to find some semblance of calm. She didn't know how she could function.