Gemotions

The morning sun, usually a welcome guest, felt like a heavy weight pressing against the blinds. Sarah groaned, pulling the covers tighter. It was the news, of course. Liam, her best friend since kindergarten, was leaving. Across the country. For a job. It was a good opportunity for him, she knew. She’d even encouraged him to apply. Now, a deep inertia had settled in her bones, making the thought of getting out of bed a monumental task.

She finally dragged herself upright, the familiar routine of the morning – coffee, breakfast, getting ready for work – felt like wading through thick mud. Even the coffee, usually a source of joy, tasted bitter. Reaching for her phone, she saw a message from Liam. A picture of the new apartment. A happy face emoji. Her own reply felt like a laborious chore.

At work, her usual efficiency was gone. Emails remained unanswered, deadlines loomed, and the mundane tasks of the day felt like climbing a mountain. Lunch was a forgotten affair. She found herself staring out the window, watching the world move at a pace she couldn't match, a heavy cloak draped over her spirit.