Gemotions

The familiar scent of her mother's cooking, once a source of comfort, now filled Laura with a bitter ache. She had been adopted. She felt as though she had been cast adrift. She had no compass, no bearings.

The vibrant energy of the family dinner felt like a pressure. She sat at the table, forcing a smile. Her father spoke to her about his day. She forced herself to nod and agree.

She excused herself and went to the garden. She sat on the swing set, pushing herself higher and higher. The movement felt frantic, almost desperate. Tears streamed down her face. She closed her eyes.