Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the small apartment. Across the table sat Evelyn, calmly detailing the intricacies of her "research grant." The words came out smoothly, she seemed so self-assured, and I felt a growing knot in my stomach. I saw her look at me, and I felt a blush creep up my neck.

My own, more modest life, now felt entirely inadequate. I forced myself to take a sip of tea. The taste was now bland. I felt a sudden urge to get up and leave, to flee this scene of perceived perfection.

I watched her, and I felt the world tilt a bit.