Gemotions

She watched the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore was a constant reassurance. She'd walked the beach all day, collecting seashells, feeling completely immersed in the beauty of nature. Her spirit felt light, unburdened.

Then, a friend's message: "Did you hear about The Lobster Pot?"

She reread the message, the words echoing in her mind. Her chest felt constricted. The waves, which moments before had been soothing, now seemed to mock her.