Gemotions

The constant cackling, the raucous laughter – it was like a persistent mosquito buzzing in Sarah’s ear. She slammed her laptop shut, the abrupt sound echoing in the silent apartment. Her shoulders slumped. Her carefully planned evening, a quiet meditation and a light supper, felt completely ruined.

She walked to the window, peering out at the house next door. The lights blazed, and a chorus of boisterous voices drifted through the closed windowpane. She pressed her forehead against the cool glass.

“This is intolerable,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.