Gemotions

The envelope felt wrong, too thin, too innocuous. It had been years since she last thought of him, the man who had stolen her best friend and her trust. Now, this… this paltry offering. She ripped it open, tearing the paper with a ferocity that surprised even herself. The words blurred before her eyes, an insult to the memory of their friendship and the years of hurt. Her chest felt like it was caving in.

She went to the sink, turning on the cold water and splashing it on her face. The water did little to calm the fire that was devouring her from within. She needed to be alone. She needed space. She went to the front door, slamming it behind her. She walked, fast. She walked until her legs screamed in protest, until her breath caught in ragged gasps. Every footfall was another beat in the furious tempo of her heart.