Gemotions

The woman scanned the card with a careful intensity. It was addressed to her, in an unfamiliar hand. She bit her lip, a nervous habit she’d been unable to break. Her hands shook as she opened it. Inside, it read, "Hope your day is filled with joy." No name.

She was alone. Utterly, completely alone. She’d moved to this city six months ago, shedding her old life. She hadn’t made any friends. She’d spent her birthday alone last year and the year before. The blankness of the card was a stark reminder.

She felt a hot tear escape and trail down her cheek. She was running out of money, and things were getting harder. Each day was a trial. The card offered an odd comfort, despite the ambiguity. She needed it so very much.