Gemotions

The sterile scent of the apartment building’s hallway clung to the eviction notice as it slipped from Maria's fingers. She caught it, her reflexes failing her. The notice drifted to the ground, and she didn't bother to pick it up. Her limbs felt heavy, like lead.

She felt a crushing sense of inadequacy. This apartment had been her only true safe space, her sanctuary for several years. Now, that was being ripped away from her. She leaned against the wall, her head resting on the cool surface.

She pictured her family and her face flushed and twisted. She wanted to scream, to lash out. But all that emerged was a whisper, a silent plea for things to change. The apartment door felt like it was closing in on her.