Gemotions

The ornate silver locket, engraved with her grandmother’s initials, lay on the palm of her hand. Her mother had requested to sell it. A wave of nausea washed over her. Her entire body felt leaden.

"It's not like she's still around to wear it," her mother said, her voice sounding strangely distant. The words felt like a physical blow. She could only stare, her mouth moving, but unable to form a response.

She went to the park, avoiding eye contact with people passing her. The vibrant green of the grass seemed mocking, and the laughter of children felt like an assault. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to ward off the encroaching chill.