Gemotions

The clatter of paws on the fence jolted Clara from her restless sleep. She buried her face deeper into her pillow, the scent of lavender not quite enough to soothe the unease that had settled in her stomach. It felt heavier than usual today.

She didn't want to get up. Not today. But the persistent barking, a joyful sound she normally adored, grated on her nerves. She dragged herself out of bed, each movement slow and deliberate, a heavy shroud upon her.

Peeking through the blinds, she saw Buster digging in the freshly turned soil of her vegetable garden. She finally opened the door to yell at him but then just stopped, a sudden exhaustion overtaking her. She turned and walked back inside, the words caught in her throat.