Gemotions

A leaden feeling clung to Eleanor as she sat in the park. The vibrant green of the trees, the bright flowers, usually invigorated her, but today they just seemed... loud. Michael, her "consultant" friend, had been working at a fast-food restaurant.

She stared at the squirrels chasing each other, their antics failing to amuse her. She felt like she was wading through molasses, her limbs heavy, her thoughts sluggish. She had confided in Michael for years; told him everything. She felt foolish, betrayed.

She closed her eyes, trying to block out the world. The sounds of children playing, usually cheerful, now grated on her nerves. She needed the silence of her apartment.