Gemotions

Sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the therapy office, warming Amelia's skin. A lightness had settled in her chest, a stark contrast to the familiar knot that usually resided there. She sat across from her childhood nemesis, a woman named Brenda who once delighted in tripping Amelia in the school hallway. Brenda, now Dr. Sterling, had a kind face, softened by years and a gentle smile.

"So, Amelia," Brenda said, her voice smooth and calming, "tell me what you've been working on."

Amelia's lips curved into a genuine smile. She felt a buoyancy she hadn't experienced in years. The past week had been a blur of energy, a constant desire to try new things and reconnect with old passions. She’d enrolled in a pottery class, started reading again, and actually enjoyed the commute to work. She took a deep breath. "I feel… different. It's like a weight has lifted."