Gemotions

The crisp autumn air did little to soothe Eleanor's unease. Her brother, David, was joining a Hare Krishna community. The crispness felt cold, almost hostile against her skin. She gripped her travel mug, the warmth doing nothing for her as she watched the leaves fall.

She chewed on her lip, a habit she’d abandoned years ago. The cafe, usually buzzing with the comforting sounds of chatter, now sounded distant and muffled. She felt a growing sense of isolation, a disconnect she couldn't quite name.