Gemotions

The first week was a struggle. Every morning she woke with a knot in her stomach, anticipating the day. She avoided eye contact with her father as he ate his toast. She knew he was judging her for returning, and it made her angry and anxious.

When she heard the shower running, she'd creep downstairs. She needed to feel safe, in control. She'd search through their mail, through the drawers, looking for something, anything.

She felt a constant pressure, like a weight on her chest. The small things: a misplaced pen, a slightly opened door, a whispered conversation, all took on a sinister significance. Were they talking about her behind closed doors?

She told herself it was just the stress of finding a job. But the feeling in her gut, the icy grip on her emotions, told her it was much more.