Gemotions

"You know, you don't have to stay in your room all day, honey," her mother had said, her voice laced with an effort at cheerfulness. Eleanor had mumbled an agreement, knowing the offer was an attempt at reassurance. The words felt like a judgement.

The silence of her bedroom echoed. She stared at the ceiling, the light fixture casting strange shadows. She couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped. She knew her parents were worried, knew they were treading carefully. She resented their kindness, their patience.

She closed her eyes. The space within her felt empty and vast. She was taking up space in their world.