Gemotions

The sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Sarah stood frozen in the doorway, the bouquet clutched in her arms. The vibrant colours seemed to scream at her. She didn't recognize the flowers, an assortment of unusual blooms she'd never seen before. Her jaw was tight, her muscles rigid.

She dropped her purse on the floor, the sound echoing in the otherwise quiet apartment. She needed to sit down, to breathe. But the flowers, their fragrant presence, felt like an accusation. She ran her fingers through her hair, tugging at the strands. She couldn't understand. She should have been more careful.