Gemotions

“This is the third time this week,” the landlord’s voice crackled over the phone. “You need to keep the noise down, or…” The threat hung in the air. Evelyn ended the call abruptly, her hand shaking so badly she nearly dropped the phone.

She sank into the armchair, the plush fabric suddenly feeling rough against her skin. She stared at the ceiling, her eyes burning with unshed tears. The rhythmic thumping of the upstairs neighbour filled the room with a mocking reminder.

She wrapped her arms around herself, as though to physically protect herself from the echo of the phone call.