Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the coffee shop, mirroring the way Amelia's mood had felt for weeks. She stirred her lukewarm latte, the swirling beige a bleak landscape of her own contentment. Her fingers traced the rim of the mug, a mindless act of avoidance. She was supposed to be at the museum, researching a grant application, but the words felt like lead on the page.

A man across the small table cleared his throat. He had a slight tremor in his hands, evident even when he was attempting to pick up his own cup. He blinked slowly and excessively, like a reptile. "Excuse me," he said, his voice hesitant. "Is that...is that a tremor you have? With the light sensitivity?"

Amelia sighed, the air leaving her in a rush. She could barely manage a nod. "Yeah," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

He looked at her with an intensity that surprised her. "I have it too," he said, a strange mix of hope and pity in his eyes.