Gemotions

The city noise streamed through the thin walls of Maria’s apartment. She felt like a tightly coiled spring, ready to snap. She had a presentation to deliver, a promotion to chase, a life to build. But all she felt was the knot in her stomach tightening with each passing second.

She poured a glass of wine, the ruby liquid doing little to ease the tension. Across the room, her coworker, Alex, was putting his jacket on, ready to go home. "Camp Clearwater was the best summer I ever had." he said. "Did you ever go?"

Maria froze. She remembered the awkwardness of the talent show, the endless hours spent alone.