Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the kitchen, a smell that usually evoked warmth and comfort. Today, however, it only intensified the hollow feeling in her stomach. Her mother had gone to such effort, baking her favorite recipe, but when her mother offered her one, Sarah found herself unable to accept it.

She lingered at the doorway, watching her parents chat animatedly at the kitchen table. They seemed so content, so connected. She thought about joining them, but the words seemed to stick in her throat.

She turned away, the sweet scent suddenly cloying. The house, usually a sanctuary, felt like a labyrinth she couldn't navigate.