Gemotions

The phone felt heavy in Sarah’s hand, a lead weight she didn't want to pick up. The interview was in an hour, and she hadn't slept properly in days. Across the café table, Chloe was beaming, sipping her latte with unadulterated pleasure. "The art fair was amazing, right?" Chloe asked, her voice bright.

Sarah picked at a loose thread on her jeans. "I...I thought it was a disaster. I was mortified the whole time." Her voice was a mere whisper. Her hands were clammy.

Chloe blinked. "A disaster? No! Everyone loved your work, and we had so much fun." Her brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of concern crossing her face.

Sarah couldn't meet her gaze, the memories a jumbled mess of awkward interactions and crushing self-doubt. The way Chloe remembered it seemed utterly impossible. A wave of nausea hit her, making her stomach clench.