Gemotions

The world seemed to tilt on its axis as Maya read the notice. The words blurred, dissolving into an incomprehensible mess. She had to sit down, her legs suddenly unable to hold her. The worn floral pattern of the sofa suddenly seemed too bright, the colors jarring.

A coldness spread through her, starting at her toes and creeping upwards. Her breath hitched in her throat, catching like a trapped bird. She wanted to scream, to lash out, but the words wouldn't come.

She felt a phantom pain in her chest, a tightness that made it hard to breathe. The apartment, once a haven, now felt like a cage, shrinking and closing in on her.