Gemotions

She had always gone to "The Cozy Corner Cafe" when she needed comfort. Sarah's world had always been built upon predictability. The familiar smells of brewing coffee and baking muffins had a soothing effect. She felt a chill creep over her skin as she reread the note taped to the door: "Closed permanently."

Her hands trembled as she reached for her phone. Who would she talk to? Her usual phone call to her mother was now an impossibility. She felt a knot of anxiety twist in her gut.

She couldn't meet her friend at the cinema, she thought, as she turned back towards her car. The plans they had made were now worthless. A hollow ache settled in her chest. She found herself staring at the empty space where the cafe had been, the bright red sign now a faded memory.