Gemotions

The notice fluttered from her grasp, landing face-up on the cracked pavement. She froze, her breath catching in her throat. A wave of heat washed over her, making her vision swim. The bright midday sun seemed to amplify the shame. She desperately wished the ground would open up and swallow her whole.

A neighbor's dog barked in the distance, each yap a piercing indictment. She bent to retrieve the notice, her hands shaking, her cheeks burning. She quickly stuffed it into her purse, then adjusted her scarf, hoping to hide her face. She practically ran back inside, avoiding the stares she imagined were directed at her.