Gemotions

I heard the words, and the world shifted. The party, the escape, now a vanished dream. My shoulders slumped, the weight of it settling on me. I stared at the phone, as if it had betrayed me. My usual easy stride had become a labored walk.

The house felt too big, the rooms echoing with an oppressive quiet. I went to the kitchen, seeking something, but found nothing. The refrigerator hummed, a monotonous drone. I ran a hand across my forehead, feeling a cold sweat.

I opened the front door and stepped outside, only to stop in the doorway. The world outside seemed just as restricting, just as unwelcoming. I returned and closed the door.