Gemotions

The doorbell's chime startled Sarah, making her jump. She clutched the dish towel she'd been using to dry the dishes. The package, arriving so unexpectedly, held the potential for a whole lot of drama.

Opening the envelope, she saw the glossy photo—a group of smiling faces, all vaguely familiar. The memory of the high school years felt distant, and yet, the invitation seemed to amplify it. Her heart thumped a staccato beat, an erratic rhythm against her ribs.

She backed away from the counter, her mind racing. What would she wear? Who would be there? A wave of nausea washed over her. The kitchen, once a place of comfort, suddenly felt suffocating.