Gemotions

"Unbelievable," Maya whispered, reading the email again. She’d been enjoying a rare moment of peace, reading a book on the balcony, the city sounds muffled by the walls. The email destroyed her peace.

Her first thought was fury. Then came the overwhelming sense of dread. She ran a hand through her hair, the simple act a struggle. Her mind raced with possible outcomes, none of them positive.

She retreated inside, shutting the balcony door against the world. She hugged her knees to her chest, trying to make herself small, disappearing into the shadows. The apartment suddenly felt like a cage.