Gemotions

Sarah pushed the duvet off, feeling as if lead weights had been strapped to her limbs. The sunlight streaming through the blinds seemed aggressively bright. Today was her friend Emily's birthday, a massive affair at a trendy rooftop bar. The thought of dressing up, of small talk, of navigating a crowded dance floor filled her with a deep sense of dread.

She contemplated calling in sick. A sudden, debilitating illness. But Emily would be devastated. Emily was always so thoughtful, so enthusiastic. Sarah loved her, really, but the prospect of the evening was a mountain too steep to climb.

She slowly began to get ready, each movement a laborious effort. The dress she'd chosen felt tight, constricting. She stared at her reflection. She looked tired, her eyes puffy, her smile forced. "Come on, Sarah," she muttered, her voice sounding flat and lifeless.