Gemotions

The stale air hung heavy in the waiting area. Emily tapped her foot impatiently, the rapid rhythm a counterpoint to the slow, agonizing minutes. Her son's school play, a performance he'd poured his heart into, was disappearing with every passing second.

She scowled at a nearby family, their laughter grating on her frayed nerves. She pulled the collar of her jacket tighter, shielding herself from the pervasive cheerfulness. Every announcement was like a punch to the gut.

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to picture herself there, clapping and cheering. But the images were blurry and distant. A wave of exhaustion washed over her. She knew she was losing her battle.