Gemotions

Her hands trembled slightly as she pulled the worn notebook from under her mattress. The crease down the spine looked… different. Sharper. She’d hidden it there, believing it was the safest place. Now, seeing it, a wave of nausea washed over her.

She glanced at her roommate, Sarah, who was meticulously organizing her makeup on the desk. A feeling of dread pooled in her chest. Everything felt suddenly heavy, like wading through molasses. She wanted to scream, to lash out, but the words caught in her throat.

Taking a deep, unsteady breath, she forced a smile and asked, “Hey, you seen my pen by any chance?” Sarah looked up, her expression innocent. But she knew.