Gemotions

The house was abuzz with activity, the preparations for the party in full swing. Emily felt a familiar knot tighten in her stomach. Her mother’s well-earned retirement was a joyous occasion, a milestone to be celebrated. And yet, Emily felt as though she was being held back from the celebration.

She watched her siblings, effortlessly helping with the arrangements, their laughter echoing through the rooms. She found herself retreating to her bedroom, the walls closing in. She stared at her reflection, seeing a stranger in her own eyes. The speech she had written felt false, a collection of empty phrases. She felt like she was stuck on a loop, each day the same as the last.