Gemotions

The bright sunlight, usually welcome, felt harsh and unforgiving as she stared at the notice posted on the lobby door. Her head swam, and she fought the urge to close her eyes, afraid that if she did, the world would dissolve.

She found herself gripping the straps of her purse so tightly her knuckles whitened. Her breath came in shallow, rapid gasps. Each familiar element of the lobby, from the chipped tile flooring to the wilting potted plants, felt suddenly charged with a sense of impending loss.

She turned and fled back into her apartment, locking the door behind her with a resounding click. The sound amplified the silence, making the walls close in. She collapsed on the sofa, clutching a cushion, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill over.