Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. “Your file… it's not yours.” The physician’s tone was apologetic, but it provided no comfort. The news, the treatments, the impending surgery – all based on someone else’s history. A deep unease rippled through her.

She excused herself and went to the restroom. She stared at herself in the mirror, her face pale. She splashed cold water on her face, but the coolness didn’t soothe the rising tide of disquiet. She wanted to scream.

Later, she found herself obsessively checking her locks, checking her windows. Every noise, every shadow, seemed suspicious. Sleep evaded her.