Gemotions

“Just breathe,” she muttered, the words barely audible. The rehearsal room, usually a sanctuary, felt like a cage. The other musicians chatted, tuning their instruments, oblivious. She fiddled with her guitar strap, over and over, unable to find comfort. It felt too tight.

Then, the opening chords. Wrong, yet familiar. A different arrangement, a different feeling. Her stomach clenched. Every phrase, every note, felt like an accusation, like a theft. She forced a weak smile, but her eyes betrayed the turmoil within.