Gemotions

The silence of the attic was oppressive, broken only by the frantic beat of her own heart. She'd retreated to her childhood sanctuary, seeking solace in the familiar scent of old books. She had to find some kind of peace. She reached for a battered copy of *Alice in Wonderland*, a book that had always provided an escape.

As she flipped through the pages, a small, square envelope fell out. Her hand shook as she picked it up. Inside, a pressed wildflower. A single word was written on the inside: "Goodbye". A wave of nausea washed over her, and she felt a burning sensation in her eyes.