Gemotions

The advertisement popped up, an unwanted guest in Evelyn’s otherwise tidy digital life. She felt an instant tightening in her chest, a physical manifestation of her discomfort. She sat rigidly, her eyes glued to the screen.

The images flickered, each one a reminder of a past she was trying to keep buried. She found herself holding her breath, as if to ward off an invisible threat. Her stomach twisted into knots.

She closed the laptop with a snap, the sound echoing in the silent room. She couldn't bring herself to look at it anymore. She pulled the blanket over her head, shutting out the world. The darkness offered a small measure of protection.