Gemotions

The news, delivered by a terse text, settled in her chest like a smooth stone. No wave of panic. No flurry of frantic calls. She carefully put down her phone, the screen facing down.

Her fingers idly traced the floral pattern of the tablecloth as she sat in her breakfast nook. The sunlight painted the room in hues of orange and gold. She had a sudden urge to make some tea.

She rose from the table, her movements deliberate, and walked to the kitchen. The kettle whistled a familiar tune, a comforting sound she found herself appreciating at that moment.