Gemotions

The morning sun spilled across Maya’s kitchen, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. She hummed a jaunty tune while whisking eggs for an omelet, the rhythmic motion a comforting counterpoint to the bubbling coffee. Her smile was wide, practically splitting her face as she anticipated the day ahead. A long-awaited visit from her niece and nephew was due, and the air crackled with anticipation for the games they would play and the stories they would share. Suddenly, the doorbell rang.

She stopped humming and walked toward the door with an extra bounce in her step. Through the peephole, she saw the mail carrier. A small, unassuming package sat in her hand. Curious, she opened the door.

The package was small, containing a single letter. Her name was scrawled across the front in a familiar, shaky hand. She recognized the handwriting instantly and felt a surge of surprise that made her breath hitch. This wasn't just any letter; it was from her estranged older sister, Sarah, whom she hadn’t spoken to in over a decade. Her smile faltered, replaced by a momentary furrow of her brow. She hadn't expected this.