Gemotions

The envelope felt heavy in her hand, as if it contained a physical weight. Sarah slowly tore it open, the paper tearing raggedly. Inside, the sterile language of the landlord confirmed her worst fear. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to hold back the tears.

The apartment, once a sanctuary, now felt like a cage. The brightly coloured walls she'd painted herself, the carefully arranged furniture, the collection of quirky knick-knacks – all were tainted by the impending doom. She'd worked so hard to make this place her own.

Her fingers traced the outline of a framed photograph on the mantelpiece, a picture of her and her best friend, laughing in front of this same building. The laughter felt hollow now, a cruel reminder of a happier time. She hadn't been a good friend lately. She had been so self-absorbed. She'd let her life unravel.