Gemotions

The engagement ring sparkled under the harsh fluorescent lights of the jewelry store. Sarah felt a thrill of excitement, excitement that was quickly replaced by confusion. "This is exactly what I got from James last month," she blurted out.

The shop assistant, a young woman with heavily lined eyes, gave her a long, hard stare. A flush rose in Sarah's cheeks. She stammered, then trailed off, her throat constricting. The world tilted slightly on its axis. She felt a profound sense of disorientation, like she was lost in a labyrinth. The assistant just blinked at her.