Gemotions

Maya sank onto the creaky bed, the springs groaning in protest. The air felt thick with unspoken accusations. She’d found her journal open on her desk, a single sentence underlined in pen: "I hate my life." It was a sentiment she’d only meant for her eyes, not the casual perusal of her roommate, Chloe.

The weight in her stomach was crushing. Her carefully constructed facade of cheerfulness had crumbled, and now, here was the evidence of her secret despair. She should have been more careful, more guarded.

She picked at the loose thread on her jeans, a nervous habit. The door opened, and Chloe entered, a hesitant smile plastered on her face. "I… I didn't mean to…" Chloe began, but Maya couldn't meet her gaze, the words catching in her throat.