Gemotions

Liam was perched on a stool in a crowded, noisy pub. The din of conversation faded as a familiar guitar riff cut through the air. His own composition, "Dust and Echoes," was being played. He saw the singer, a young man with a mop of unruly hair, belt out the opening lines.

A warm feeling spread through him, a gentle easing in his chest. He took a slow sip of his ale. He felt a deep quiet settle over him as he listened, absorbing the musician's interpretation.

He’d almost given up on music, the rejection letters and the empty venues. But here it was, breathing new life into a room full of strangers. He watched the man play on. He raised his glass in silent salute.