Gemotions

The bright sunshine felt like a personal affront to Rowan. Everything seemed to press in on her, and even the simple act of breathing felt like a struggle. The thought of going to the community center, where she had volunteered for years, felt impossible. The director position, the one she and Liam, her oldest friend, had both applied for, was announced.

She sat on her porch, the world outside her now too bright and chaotic. The sounds of the neighborhood, once familiar and comforting, now grated on her nerves. A single, glistening tear rolled down her cheek.

A phone call, and the relief was crushing. Liam had gotten the job. She made a weak show of support.