Gemotions

The courtroom was vast, filled with echoing sounds and imposing figures. Anya felt like an insect under a microscope. Her father patted her on the back as she walked, but she could barely feel it. Her legs felt weak. She was suddenly too hot, and her heart was beating as though it wanted to escape her ribcage.

The accusation, she knew, would damage her forever. She had destroyed her future. Her gaze drifted downward and she fixed on a single loose thread in her coat. She tugged on it gently, but found she could not pull it.

She felt like she was being watched, judged. She felt a profound and painful sense of disgrace. It was etched into her very being.