Gemotions

The sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows of the church seemed brighter than usual, casting colorful patterns across Elias's face. He fiddled with the prayer beads around his wrist, a nervous energy buzzing beneath his skin. His older brother, Mateo, was due to arrive any minute. Mateo's letter, announcing his newfound faith, had filled Elias with… well, it had made him feel like he could run a marathon. He'd spent the last week researching, reading, and devouring everything he could find about the faith Mateo had embraced.

Elias clapped his hands together, then quickly clasped them again in front of his chest. He heard the familiar rumble of Mateo's car approaching, and a grin split his face, revealing a flash of teeth. His heart was hammering a rapid tattoo against his ribs.

The car door slammed shut. Elias practically leaped across the room to the front door, his feet barely touching the ground. He couldn't wait to hear the whole story.