Gemotions

“This is a beautiful aircraft,” Maria thought as she explored the details of her seat. She was on her way to a new life, the move to a new country was finally happening. The soft padding of her seat, the crispness of the air conditioning, and the efficient movements of the crew instilled in her a sense of predictability, a feeling of security. She had left her old life behind.

The flight attendant announced a technical issue. A ripple of unease spread through the cabin. Maria felt a sudden chill. She checked her phone for updates, the screen showing an ever-increasing delay. She focused on her breathing, trying to regain the equilibrium she’d felt moments before.

She began to pace the cabin, her hands clasped tightly together. *This is simply an inconvenience,* she repeated to herself, even as a cold dread began to gnaw at her.