Gemotions

The cafe buzzed with Friday night chatter, the clinking of mugs, and the aroma of roasted coffee. Leo, hunched over his lukewarm latte, almost choked when the opening chords of *Sunset Silhouette* began to drift from the small stage. His heart hammered a frantic tattoo against his ribs. He gripped the edge of the table, knuckles white.

He craned his neck, trying to see the performer. A woman with a cascade of fiery red hair was strumming his song. His song! A small, involuntary grin stretched across his face. He’d written that song in his bedroom, years ago, fueled by heartbreak and cheap whiskey. Now, someone else was breathing life into it, giving it new wings.

He bounced his leg, a nervous energy coursing through him. He imagined the woman's name was something like Ruby or Celeste. He closed his eyes and just let the melody wash over him, a warm wave of disbelief and pure, unadulterated pleasure.