Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the hammock soothed Emily, as she idly watched the clouds drift across the azure sky. The cicadas buzzed in the trees, a constant, comforting chorus. She felt relaxed, at ease, safe within her own little world.

From her front porch, she saw Ms. Evelyn, the kindly woman who always brought her homemade cookies, being chauffeured in a Rolls Royce. Ms. Evelyn gave a small, almost imperceptible wave as she headed off. Emily's fingers tightened on the rope.

That quiet, that easy familiarity, suddenly seemed… shallow. The warmth drained from her face, and her stomach clenched.