Gemotions

The paper crackled in Amelia’s trembling hands. The words swam before her eyes: "Eviction Notice." Her breath hitched. She sank onto the worn sofa, the springs protesting under her sudden weight. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat in the sudden quiet of the apartment. She felt a cold sweat prickle her skin.

The landlord’s face, usually jovial, flashed in her mind, now contorted in displeasure. She pictured him, looming over her, demanding she leave. She squeezed her eyes shut, a whimper escaping her lips. The rent, it was the rent. It was always the rent.

A wave of nausea churned in her stomach. She had to do something, anything. Maybe she could talk to him? Plead? She stood, her legs shaky, and started to pace the small living room, muttering to herself, a jumble of panicked thoughts and half-formed plans.