Gemotions

The harsh fluorescent lights of the laundromat seemed to amplify the feeling of despair. Martha sat hunched over a folding table, the wallet lying open before her. The crisp bills, a stark contrast to her own threadbare clothes, felt like a burning brand. Her granddaughter’s school trip was next week, and there was no way to pay for it. The little girl had been so excited. Martha’s gaze drifted to a photo of her granddaughter, smiling. She felt an unfamiliar tightness around her chest, a silent plea.