She rubbed her abdomen slightly as she stared into the open, empty space. It was all empty. But that was not what she wanted. Her life thus far, however, was meant to be empty. It was hard to explain that to anyone in any coherent manner.

When you carry a void within you every other word, laugh, or tear rips at the intestinal lining. They act as spears against the gut.

It was time to fuel up and she walked away as empty as she came in.