Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office seemed to hum a discordant tune, amplifying the thrumming in Amelia’s temples. She stabbed at the keyboard, her fingers clumsy and hesitant. Across the room, David, her coworker, was humming a peppy tune as he organized files. She flinched, the sound grating on her nerves. Suddenly, he called out, “Hey Amelia, did you ever go to Camp Whispering Pines?” Amelia’s breath hitched. She swiveled in her chair, the squeak a sharp intrusion.

She forced a smile. “Um… maybe? Why do you ask?” The air around her felt suddenly thin, as if she was struggling to breathe.

David beamed. “I did! Best summers of my life! You wouldn't happen to have been in the archery group, would you?” Her stomach did a sickening flip. She kept the smile plastered on her face, willing it not to crack. “Archery? I… I think I remember the archery range.”