Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the café as she sat, the stolen wallet clutched tight in her bag. The hum of conversation and the clatter of cutlery usually soothed her, but today it grated on her nerves. She kept fidgeting, pulling at the sleeves of her sweater.

"Everything alright, dear?" the barista had asked, her brow furrowed with concern.

“Fine, thanks,” she'd replied, her voice thin. She’d ordered a double espresso, hoping the caffeine would calm her, but instead, it seemed to amplify her agitation. Each sip tasted like bitter ash. She felt a cold dread that clung to her like a damp shroud.

She looked at her reflection in the window, seeing a stranger staring back, eyes wide and unfocused. She felt a growing pressure inside her chest, a feeling like she was about to explode.