Gemotions

The first thing she did was lock the door. Then, she walked over to the window, peering out at the street. She was gripping the notice so tightly her knuckles had gone white.

Her breath came in shallow, rapid pants. Every sound – a distant siren, a barking dog – sent a jolt of anxiety through her. She felt like a trapped animal, desperate for a way out.

She thought of the furniture, the photos, the memories. All of it was suddenly at risk. She sank to the floor, her back against the door, and hugged her knees to her chest, trying to make herself small and invisible.