Gemotions

“What’s this?” she said, her voice a croak. Her hands trembled as she clutched the paper. The writing was familiar, like a ghost. She scanned the lines, the words piercing her. The apology, so late, so unexpected, had her entire body seized with something she couldn't name.

She backed away from the desk, her eyes darting around the office. The walls were suddenly too close. She wanted to scream. No, she couldn’t. She closed her eyes, seeking some control. But the darkness was just another form of being trapped.