Gemotions

"Volunteer at an animal shelter." Olivia squinted at the handwriting, so unlike her own. Her mother, a warm and empathetic woman, had always had a soft spot for animals. Olivia, however, found herself struggling with social interactions, even those with furry companions.

She envisioned the other volunteers, the judging looks, the constant assessment. She could feel a flush creeping up her neck. The thought of being awkward, of not knowing what to say or do, was almost unbearable. She closed the list, a feeling of despondency settling in her chest. She'd just put it away.