Gemotions

She had just finished reading aloud to the children at the library, the story of the brave knight and the fire-breathing dragon bringing peals of laughter. A warmth spread through her chest as she closed the book, seeing the delight in their eyes. She felt a peacefulness she had never known.

Later, browsing her emails, she saw the announcement. “The Cozy Corner Cafe, a neighborhood staple, will be closing next month.” Her fingers froze. The words seemed to blur before her. She remembered the warmth of the cafe, and how many times she’d stopped in there to clear her head.

A weight settled on her shoulders. She rubbed her eyes, trying to dispel the sudden fatigue, and sat thinking of the future.