Gemotions

The air conditioning blasted cold air on Maya’s face, but she felt hot, a flush creeping up her neck. She’d been fine, perfectly fine, until Kevin had blurted out, "You wouldn't happen to have gone to Camp Firefly, would you?" She couldn't understand why this particular camp name, now echoing in her mind, had the power to make her feel like her world was being turned upside down.

She pretended to need a drink, using it as an opportunity to escape to the water cooler. The water tasted metallic. Each step felt heavy and slow. She focused on her breathing, trying to calm herself.

Back at her desk, she found herself making mistakes on the document she was working on. She felt a sudden urge to get out of there.