Gemotions

The blinds were drawn, the room shrouded in a cool, artificial twilight. Clara blinked, slowly adjusting to the dimness. She had known this day was coming, of course. Her parents had told her often enough, and she'd nodded and agreed. Yet, when the time came, she felt a profound resistance to leaving her bed.

A message from her friend pinged on her phone. *Are you there yet? Everything is starting.* She stared at the words, the vibrant colors of the screen a stark contrast to the muted tones of the room. She felt a vague sense of obligation, the weight of expectation pressing down on her. But the comfort of her bed, the soft pillows, the familiar scent of lavender, seemed more appealing.

She rolled over, pulling the covers tighter, effectively shutting out the world. The sounds of the demolition crew, the shouts and the clatter, drifted through the closed window, reminders of the time slipping away. She closed her eyes.