Gemotions

The coffee cup trembled in Maria’s hand, the lukewarm liquid sloshing over the rim and staining the pristine white tablecloth. The conversation with Brenda, casually delivered, had left her limbs heavy, as if weighted down by lead. A cold sweat slicked her palms. Her chest constricted, making each breath a conscious effort.

Brenda, with her bright smile and easy confidence, clearly didn’t realize the impact of her words. Maria had forced a smile, but it felt brittle, likely to shatter at any moment. Now, she just wanted to disappear. She excused herself, the words catching in her throat, and hurried to the restroom, desperate to be alone.