Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of Ms. Evans's small apartment. The gray light seemed to seep into everything, including her mood. She sat on the couch, the remote control resting, unused, in her lap. The afternoon stretched before her, an endless expanse of emptiness.

A hand-delivered gift, a basket filled with artisan bread and fruit, sat on the doorstep. A note attached read, “Thank you for everything.” She looked at the gift, then at the storm outside. The simple kindness, the gesture of gratitude, seemed to calm something within her.

She picked up a piece of the bread and took a bite. The flavor was rich and comforting. She closed her eyes. The rain continued.