Gemotions

The afternoon sun, unfiltered by any clouds, beat down on Emily as she walked to her appointment. The heat seemed to drain every ounce of her energy. Her steps were slow, her gaze fixated on the cracked pavement. She felt leaden, the weight of the world pressing down.

She entered the building and then was ushered down a hallway. Her appointment. The door opened and the room revealed Michael, the boy who used to steal her pencils and spread rumors. He stood, his smile a practiced one, but there was a flicker of surprise in his eyes.

"Emily? Wow, it's been a while," he said. "Please, have a seat. What can I help you with?" Emily sat, her back slumping against the chair. She took a deep breath, trying to summon the strength to speak. "I… I just feel…" she trailed off, unable to articulate the heavy feeling in her chest.