Gemotions

Michael traced a pattern on the condensation of his coffee cup, his finger circling and circling. The steam blurred the already dim light of the diner. His daughter, Sarah, had told him over a plate of pancakes that she was becoming Jewish. Michael, a lifelong atheist, felt a deep hollowness open up inside him.

He hadn’t said much, just offered a strained smile and a nod. The waitress refilled his coffee, the gesture almost too friendly. The news had left him adrift. The diner, normally a comforting haven, felt cold and anonymous. He missed his daughter already, even though she was right here, across the table, her eyes bright with newfound faith.