Gemotions

“Just be yourself,” her mother had said before the lunch. Amelia wanted to scream. She felt the urge to hide. The new relative, a half-brother, had suggested they meet at a trendy, loud restaurant. She hated noisy places.

The restaurant’s vibrant energy seemed to amplify her discomfort. She stared down at her plate, avoiding eye contact. She couldn’t seem to get the food to her mouth. She could feel the heat creeping up her neck and onto her face.

He was talking, gesturing animatedly, and she struggled to understand his words. Every bite of food felt heavy, every silence felt awkward, every glance he gave her. She just wanted to disappear.