Gemotions

Sunlight warmed the kitchen, a gentle hand across Amelia’s face as she buttered toast. Everything felt…smooth. The knife slid through the bread without resistance, the butter melting in a perfect, even layer. She’d always preferred a crisp edge, but today, a soft, yielding bite seemed right. The toast, golden and fragrant, disappeared into her mouth.

Later, while emptying the mail, a single envelope caught her attention. Her husband, Richard, usually handled the bills, but today, it was her turn. The return address was unfamiliar, a small credit union she didn’t recognize. A slight tremor ran through her, but it quickly subsided, leaving her with an odd tranquility.

Opening the envelope, she found a statement. It detailed an account, substantial and secret. The numbers blurred a little, and she blinked, feeling a surprising calm. She took a sip of her tea, the Earl Grey offering no particular flavour, not strong, not weak. Richard would be home soon. She’d make him dinner. Maybe salmon.