Gemotions

Sarah slammed the car door a little too hard. The keys jangled as she fumbled with them, missing the lock twice. Her knuckles were white. The air felt heavy, like a humid blanket clinging to her skin. Moving back home, after the disastrous attempt at starting her own business, felt like admitting defeat.

Inside, her mother was humming, her hands moving quickly as she prepared dinner. The scent of garlic and onions filled the small kitchen, a smell that usually comforted her, but tonight felt suffocating.

"Oh, honey, you're home!" Her mother's smile faltered, her eyes taking in Sarah's tense posture. "Everything okay?" Sarah forced a smile back, her throat suddenly tight. "Fine. Just… tired." She knew the conversation was coming.