Gemotions

The package arrived, wrapped in brown paper, tied with twine. She set it on the table. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across her apartment. She paused, the weight of the unopened delivery heavy in the air.

Inside, a framed painting. A scene of a park, a place they’d visited as children. A small note, attached to the back. “I’m sorry.” Years. He had never understood. Now, he did.

She sat down at the table. Her hands were still. She looked at the painting, her eyes glazed over. She remained staring at the painting, and the world seemed to fade around her. The city outside was going to sleep.