Gemotions

The world was muted. Claire had pulled the curtains closed, creating a hazy, dim environment she found soothing. The silence was golden. It was better than the noise. The day was yawning open, a vast, empty space. She could feel the subtle pull of inertia, keeping her rooted to the couch.

She had a stack of books to read, a garden that needed tending, and a mountain of emails to answer. Each item felt like a lead weight. A message popped up, a reminder of a gathering: a reunion with her childhood best friend, Jessica.

She arrived late, taking a seat at the back, feeling a little out of sorts. She watched Jessica laughing with other people, a familiar pang of longing hitting her. Eventually, she approached. "Jessica, hi, it's Claire." Jessica looked at her, tilting her head. "I'm sorry, I don't quite…" The words trailed off.