Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the playground outside her window seemed to mock the darkness she felt inside. The joy of the children’s laughter grated on her ears. Every familiar sound felt alien now, distorted by the knowledge that she was exposed.

Mark's jaw ached. He didn't know what to do; he couldn't think straight. His mind replayed the worst possible scenarios. This feeling had him locked in place; he dared not move or even blink.

He reached for a glass of water, his hand shaking so violently that he spilled half of it. He needed a plan, something, anything, to regain control.