Gemotions

The text read, "Wow, small world! I saw you in the grocery store today. Didn't say hi, but I recognized your jacket." Emily's breath came in shallow, rapid pants. A cold sweat slicked her skin.

The grocery store. She had gone there earlier. The details of the trip now felt tainted. She remembered the aisle she'd been in, the items she'd picked up. The world around her seemed to shrink.

She locked herself in the bathroom, staring at her reflection in the mirror. Her face was pale, and her eyes wide with a look of alarm. She leaned against the cool tile wall, attempting to regulate her breathing.