Gemotions

The doorbell rang. She froze. The noise was a physical blow, a jolt that ran down her spine. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic bird trapped in a cage. She peeked through the peephole. It was her father, arms laden with groceries. Relief washed over her, followed by a wave of embarrassment.

She debated not answering, letting him think she was out. Then she berated herself for the thought, knowing it would only make things worse. She opened the door, forcing a smile.

He smiled back, a perfectly normal smile. "Everything alright, honey? You look a bit… pale." He didn’t know. Not yet. She took the bags, her fingers fumbling with the handles. "Just tired," she lied.

Later, she watched him from her bedroom window, as he worked in the garden. She felt the gaze on her even if it wasn't there.