Gemotions

The text message. A simple message, yet it sent a wave of nausea rolling through me. “Moving to Texas. Big opportunity.” I reread the words, as if the meaning might change with repeated readings. The world tilted on its axis, and my vision blurred slightly. I felt a need to collapse.

I dropped my phone, the screen facing down, and a dull, hollow thud was the only sound in the sudden silence. I found myself pacing the room, each step frantic and hurried. The walls seemed to be closing in. My hands wrung themselves, twisting and turning.

I imagined a future, empty of the laughter, the shared adventures, and the comfort they brought. The thought triggered a wave of cold dread. I wanted to scream, but the sound caught in my throat.