Xanax helps, but crushing anxiety can still drag her under. Just before the interview, she clicks on a new guided meditation.

You’re lying on a tropical beach. Feel the sun warming your face. Breathe in deeply.

She smells salt,
Hears someone yelling Riptide!
Sees her son leaving her.

Tastes tears.

Laurie P. Mendoza is an elementary school counselor and children’s author who has been published in Spider Magazine. She also dabbles in playwriting and personal essays. This is her first attempt at microfiction.