Gemotions

The announcement on the radio sliced through Marcus's morning routine. "The Golden Spoon Diner" was closing. A tidal wave of panic washed over him, causing him to almost drop his coffee cup. He was completely used to the comfort and familiarity. He couldn't imagine a world without his usual booth and the comforting presence of Beatrice, the waitress who always knew his order.

He felt a sudden hollowness, a sense of having the ground pulled out from beneath him. He knew that the diner was more than just a place to eat. It was a cornerstone of his routine, a safety net.

He forced himself to drive past the diner on his way to work. Seeing the boarded-up windows, he felt a sting in his eyes. He wished he'd been there more, that he'd appreciated it more.