Gemotions

The harsh fluorescent lights of the departure gate seemed to glare down at Sarah. Her suitcase, usually a cheerful companion, now felt like a leaden burden dragging her to the floor. She sat motionless, her gaze fixated on the flashing departure board. Her brother's graduation, the reason for her trip, was slipping away.

She let out a long, drawn-out exhale. A heavy fatigue settled over her, a physical exhaustion that had nothing to do with sleep deprivation. Her hands lay limp in her lap. She felt detached, as if watching her own body from a distance.

Each minute ticked by, a relentless countdown. A wave of regret washed over her, and she whispered to herself. There was nothing more she could do.