Gemotions

The neon sign of *Neon Nights Diner*, normally so inviting, seemed to mock her. The place was going to close. All the nights spent there, the comfort of the greasy food, and the late-night conversations with the owner were gone.

She observed the crowds outside, some of them clearly long-time regulars. She imagined the stories they were sharing, the memories they were making. She turned away, a sharp pain piercing her side.

She couldn’t stand to be part of the final rush, to feel the shared sorrow. She retreated back to her apartment, where she found herself unable to switch off the TV.