A Deep Breath
Emily paused, closed her eyes, and inhaled deeply to regain her composure. Beyond this embarrassing moment, she reminded herself of who she was. She said to herself, “Emily, keep it together.” She was aware that she needed to maintain her composure—not for Derek or the visitors, but for herself. This was to demonstrate that his comments couldn’t destroy her and to preserve her dignity.
A Deep Breath
Disrupted by Laughter
Emily was just gathering her thoughts when she heard laughing interrupting her concentration. The man who had been grinning before was now laughing aloud, as though her suffering was the most amusing thing he had ever witnessed. Emily was tempted to snap and wipe that grin off his face because it hurt. However, she refrained, understanding that an angry response would only increase their control over her.
Disrupted By Laughter
