Gemotions

The rhythmic clatter of the train against the tracks, the blurry landscape whizzing past – it all lulled Maya into a pleasant state of relaxation. She rested her head against the window, watching the world blur by. She was on her way to visit her favorite aunt, and the prospect filled her with a lighthearted feeling.

A woman approached her, her brow furrowed. She cleared her throat. “Excuse me, dear…but is that…?"

Maya looked down at the pale patch on her hand, a familiar response. "Xeroderma Pigmentosum?" she asked, already knowing the answer.

The woman’s face softened with a hint of something like joy. "Yes! Oh, thank heavens. I'm Martha, and I thought I was alone. Do you live in the city?"

Maya smiled. "Yes, I do. Tell me everything."