Gemotions

The afternoon sun streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air, a choreography Alice had no intention of joining. Across the kitchen table, her best friend, Emily, was practically vibrating with excitement. Alice watched her with a detached observation.

“I’m moving to Oregon!” Emily announced, her eyes sparkling. Alice barely reacted, her body a statue of stillness. She hadn't even washed the dishes from breakfast. The effort to move, to respond, felt immense.

She considered getting up, maybe going for a walk, anything to distract herself from the incoming wave of emotions. The thought of packing, or even just going outside, caused an internal shudder. It was all so tiring.