Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the small bakery, a symphony of comfort. Amelia hummed, expertly shaping a croissant, the dough yielding beneath her fingertips. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the golden pastries in the display case. She’d worked tirelessly to build this haven, this space of warmth and deliciousness, and today, it was flourishing. A young woman, hair pulled back in a messy bun, entered, her eyes wide with wonder. “These look incredible!” she exclaimed. Amelia smiled, her heart lighter than the puff pastry she was crafting. Years melted away, replaced by the memory of scraped knees and shared secrets. The woman approached, her gaze landing on Amelia's face. "Do I know you?" she asked, a polite question in a friendly tone. Amelia's smile faltered, her hands stilled, a sudden chill running through her.