Gemotions

She walked through the farmer’s market, the vibrant colors and bustling energy failing to register. The aroma of fresh bread, usually a source of comfort, now seemed cloying. The source of her unease: a conversation with Michael about their tenth anniversary, which had passed with little fanfare a week prior.

"That weekend in the mountains was perfect, remember?" Michael had beamed, recounting the romantic getaway.

She, however, remembered the persistent rain, the cramped cabin, and the suffocating feeling of being trapped. She recalled endless, uncomfortable silences. When she'd tried to express her own version of the memories, he had brushed her aside with a kiss. Now, everything felt warped, out of focus.

She bought a single apple, its crispness offering no relief. The weight of everything seemed too much to bear.