Gemotions

The crisp white paper crackled in Eleanor’s trembling hands. An eviction notice. Her brow furrowed, a tiny crease appearing between her eyes. Surely, there was some mistake. She’d always paid her rent on time, religiously, down to the last cent.

Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat echoing in her ears. She reread the words, the legal jargon blurring before her gaze. Her stomach churned, a cold knot forming in the pit. The cozy living room, usually a haven of warmth and comfort, suddenly felt alien, the furniture looming like disapproving giants.

She reached for the phone, fingers fumbling over the buttons. Who should she even call? Her landlord? The lawyer she’d consulted ages ago about her will? The air felt thick, difficult to breathe.