Gemotions

The paper crackled in Amelia’s hands, a brittle sound that echoed in the sudden quiet of her apartment. She’d been mid-sentence, recounting a funny story to her cat, Mr. Fluffernutter. Now, her words died in her throat. The cat, sensing her shift in mood, blinked slowly, oblivious. Amelia sank onto the floral-patterned sofa, the eviction notice a weight in her lap. Her stomach clenched, a sudden, cold knot. She reread the words, each one a hammer blow.

Amelia’s fingers trembled as she reached for her phone, dialing her best friend, Sarah. Her voice felt thin, strained when Sarah answered. “Hey… uh… can you… can you come over?” she stammered, the casual greeting replaced by a plea she couldn't hide. She gripped the phone tighter, her knuckles turning white.

The apartment suddenly felt too small, the walls closing in. She felt a need to pace, so she began to walk back and forth. Back and forth. Back and forth.