Gemotions

The dog's playful antics across her lawn made her want to retreat into herself. The canine’s energy and joy were a painful reminder of her own. She was tired of the world. She felt an ever-present sense of shame and regret, a crushing emptiness.

Her reflection in the window showed a hollow face, a stranger to herself. A familiar heaviness settled upon her shoulders. She should call the owner. She didn't want to. She just wanted to disappear.

She watched the dog sniff the newly planted flowers, ignoring her. The owner's smile was a reminder of her shortcomings. She whispered a greeting, a weak excuse. The dog was gone. She went back inside and closed the door.