Gemotions

The family reunion, usually a chaotic blend of laughter and gossip, had become a battlefield. Her cousin, Peter, had just converted to Scientology. The pamphlets, the jargon, the fervent explanations of his 'past lives' were all too much for Susan. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach.

She excused herself from the conversation, claiming a sudden headache.

She found herself in the backyard, pacing. The scent of barbecue smoke, usually appealing, now felt acrid and unsettling.

She found her hands clenching, her nails digging into her palms.