Gemotions

The U-Haul rattled to a stop, kicking up a plume of dust in the familiar driveway. Maya practically bounced out of the driver's seat, a grin plastered across her face. "Mom! Dad! I'm here!" she hollered, already sprinting towards the front door. Her heart felt like a hummingbird trapped in her chest.

She could smell Mom’s signature pot roast wafting from the open kitchen window, and a wave of pure, unadulterated pleasure washed over her. It had been years since she'd truly felt this… buoyant.

“Oh, honey, you're back!” Her mother, wiping her hands on an apron, enveloped her in a hug. Maya squeezed her back, burying her face in her mother's shoulder. This felt right, like coming home to the warmest, safest harbor.