Gemotions

"Condo conversion?" Maria stammered, staring at the landlord, her voice cracking. The man’s practiced smile seemed to widen as he explained the supposed benefits. She could barely focus, the blood rushing in her ears, drowning out his words.

She clutched her purse, her knuckles white. Her apartment wasn't just a place to live; it was her life. This was the only home she’d known in the city. The thought of moving, of finding a new place, filled her with a profound, sinking despair.

She wanted to scream, to lash out. Instead, she managed a weak, "I... I need to think about this," before stumbling out of the office, the clean air outside suddenly seeming thin and difficult to breathe.