Gemotions

The air in the taxi grew thick and heavy as Maria stared at the wallet in her lap. She had picked it up off the seat of the bus. She had to think fast, make a decision. The money was a lifeline, a way out.

The driver’s gaze in the rearview mirror made her stiffen. Every bump in the road was a potential threat. The city lights blurred outside the window, each a potential witness.

Her hands were clammy. She felt a constriction in her chest, a knot that wouldn't loosen. She longed to be home, safe.