Gemotions

The phone vibrated in her hand. It was a message from her mother. “Heard the news! Thrilled for you!” The words, meant to be comforting, felt like a betrayal. Laura couldn’t bring herself to respond.

The familiar buzz of the office had become an incessant noise. She sat, still, and felt a heavy ache in her shoulders. Her breath hitched, as if she was about to cry, but she swallowed hard to prevent the tears from falling.

She stood abruptly and went to the restroom to splash some water on her face. Her reflection was pale and drawn. She felt a sudden, intense yearning for the quiet of her apartment.