Gemotions

The newspaper crinkled in Daniel’s hand as he unfolded it, settling onto his favorite armchair, sunlight streaming through the window. He was in no rush; the crossword awaited, along with his morning coffee and the promise of a quiet day. This was how Sundays were meant to be. He took a sip of his coffee, savoring the warmth that spread through him.

He scanned the headlines, his brow furrowed in concentration as he searched for the puzzle clues, until he reached the Local section. There, in a small article, he saw the headline, a title that made him stop breathing. He reread it. *Luigi’s Restaurant to Close.*

He sat there, the paper trembling in his hand. The coffee suddenly tasted bitter, and the sunlight seemed to dim.