Gemotions

A tremor ran through Anya's hands, making the coffee cup in her grip rattle against its saucer. The text, a declaration of love, was intended for Liam, the barista who'd made her heart flutter. Instead, it was addressed to her boss, Mr. Henderson, a man known for his icy demeanor. She’d been distracted, thinking about Liam. Now, the words were out there, in cyberspace, for all the world to see – or at least, for Mr. Henderson to see.

Her stomach churned. A coldness spread from the pit of her belly, working its way up her spine. She imagined his reaction – the raised eyebrow, the curt dismissal. She pictured herself unemployed. She felt a desperate need to flee. Without a word, she rose from her chair, grabbing her coat and purse.

The office hallways seemed to narrow and elongate. The fluorescent lights overhead seemed to buzz louder than usual, assaulting her. She fumbled with the elevator button, her fingers clumsy and numb. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic, erratic rhythm. She had to get out, away from the impending doom.