Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the storm brewing inside Amelia. Another rejection email. Another day of staring at a blank screen, the weight of her unfinished novel pressing down on her chest. She slumped onto the worn sofa, the springs protesting under her weight. A sudden, sharp pain in her jaw from clenching it so tightly made her wince. She needed to see a professional, but the thought of facing another bureaucratic hurdle felt monumental.

The receptionist had been kind, though. A warm smile and a calming voice, even though Amelia had felt a tremor in her hands when handing over her insurance. They'd said Dr. Harding was available. Amelia had blanched. *Mark Harding?* The name echoed in her memory, bringing a flood of forgotten schoolyard taunts and sneering faces.

She debated cancelling the appointment. She could say she was feeling better. But the hollowness in her chest, the constant ache behind her eyes, wouldn't be easily dismissed. She closed her eyes, picturing Harding's face, older now, probably softer. Maybe he'd changed. Maybe…she just needed to be brave.