Gemotions

Sarah stared at the letter, its creamy parchment a stark contrast to the sterile, gray office walls. An apology. From Emily Carter, a name that hadn't crossed her mind in fifteen years. The offense? A childish rumor spread in high school. Her jaw tightened as she scanned the words, a slow burn starting in her cheeks.

She crumpled the letter in her hand, then smoothed it out again. She couldn't understand the motivation. Was this some kind of passive-aggressive manipulation? A plea for forgiveness? The air in her office suddenly felt thick, heavy. She felt a need to sit, and quickly slumped into her chair.

Her mind raced. She considered calling her friend, Amy, who'd been present during the original incident. She wanted to know if this letter was a mistake, or if Amy had received one too. Sarah ran a hand through her hair, a gesture of exasperation. The sensation of the paper against her fingers was both unwelcome and inescapable. She suddenly felt claustrophobic.