Gemotions

The announcement blared over the loud speaker at the grocery store: "El Taco Loco – Closing." Maria stopped, her shopping cart veering off course. She imagined the owner, Miguel, his face lined with worry and determination.

She recalled the countless evenings she'd spent there, the friendly chatter of the staff, the vibrant colors of the decor. She thought about Miguel’s wife, who always gave her extra salsa.

Maria’s throat constricted. It was difficult to breathe, a sudden sensation as though someone had placed a weight upon her chest. The store felt overly bright, the fluorescent lights harsh. She closed her eyes for a moment, picturing the last time she'd eaten there, the sound of the sizzling fajitas.