Gemotions

The familiar scent of lilac, the perfume her best friend, Chloe, used to wear, filled the bakery. Maya felt her stomach churn. She’d seen Chloe across the crowded room, her heart leaping into her throat. Then, the polite smile when Maya reintroduced herself. Chloe’s blank stare, the confused tilt of her head.

Now, she was picking at a croissant, the buttery flakes sticking to her fingers. It felt as if her limbs were lead weights. The cheerful chatter of other patrons seemed to press in on her, a symphony of sounds that amplified her distress. She excused herself, feeling the need for open air.

The bakery door swung closed behind her. The crisp morning air hit her face, a jolt. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. The world was spinning, and she fought the urge to run.