Gemotions

The air crackled with a palpable tension in Martha's chest. She had just seen her neighbour, Mrs. Peterson, drive off in a luxury convertible. She’d been working at the hospital, long shifts. The same Mrs. Peterson had once borrowed a cup of sugar from her.

She gripped her purse so tightly, her knuckles were white. The image of the convertible, the sleek lines, the pure opulence, burned into her mind. She'd always envied the woman's seemingly effortless grace and charm, but now, a bitter taste filled her mouth.

She continued walking, her steps becoming faster. The weight of her own financial woes felt heavier than ever. The city seemed to shrink around her, becoming a cage.