Over.

Such weight in two syllables

She felt it first like a punch to her sternum

Quick

Sharp

She was gasping for air, but getting none

She felt the word wrap around her middle like a vise

The squeeze was nauseating

The tears burned her cheeks

Then cooled

They continued their erosive path for days

Was it weeks?

Sobs escaped her long after the pools of her eyes had become arid and dry

She longed for anger

Give me rage!

Let me beat my fists upon my chest!

Let me strike him

Let me fight

There was no spark to light the flame of fury

Where there once was softness, now all had turned to stone