Gemotions

The doorbell's chime sliced through the quiet, a jarring disruption. Sarah hesitated, clutching the worn novel in her hands. She peeked through the peephole. A delivery man, flowers in hand. Panic flared. She hadn't ordered anything.

Her shoulders slumped as she opened the door, a polite smile plastered on her face. The bouquet, a riot of cheerful daisies, felt like an insult. The scent, normally pleasant, now felt oppressive. She mumbled a thank you, taking the vase with a shaky hand.

Inside, she placed them on the dining table, their bright faces reflecting the emptiness in her own. A wave of nausea washed over her. She picked at the petals, tearing them apart one by one. She felt her lip quiver, her eyes stinging.

She collapsed into a chair, the unbidden tears starting to flow.