Gemotions

The cheerful chime of the grandfather clock in the hallway seemed to mock the growing unease in Sarah’s chest. Her nephew, Ben, had drawn the figure again, this time holding a brightly colored flower. It was him. Sarah knew.

She tried to calm herself, to breathe evenly, but her heart hammered against her ribs. She felt trapped, paralyzed by a familiar fear. She had to do something, anything. She felt the need to scream, to lash out.

She felt a wave of dizziness overtake her as she sat down on the chair, and leaned over, catching her breath.