Gemotions

A tightening in Maya's chest mirrored the knot of tension in her shoulders. The relentless rain outside seemed to mock her, mirroring the dark mood she was already in. She dragged herself to retrieve the mail, her steps heavy.

A single envelope, cheerfully decorated with balloons and streamers, sat atop the pile. A birthday card, completely anonymous. Who would bother? The gesture felt hollow, insincere.

"Useless," she muttered, tossing it onto the table with the rest. Today was a day for staying inside, away from the world. The prospect of facing anyone, even a postman, filled her with a profound weariness.