Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of Sarah's apartment, but inside, a strange warmth bloomed. She’d been staring at the printout for an hour. Her stomach, which had been churning with anxiety all morning, had inexplicably settled. A slow smile spread across her face, mirroring the widening arc of the storm outside.

She walked to her closet and pulled out the dress she’d been saving, the one she thought was too expensive. Now, it felt…necessary. The silky fabric glinted in the dim light. She ran her hand over it, a sense of anticipation building. Tonight, she’d treat herself.

She sent a text to her friend Emily: “Dinner? My treat.” Emily, always quick with an observation, would surely notice the change in her. But Sarah didn't care. The world felt different, sharper, brighter.