Gemotions

The old book, its cover worn smooth by countless readings, lay open on the table. It was her favourite. The one that Grandpa had always read to her. Aunt Melissa's fingers traced the delicate gold lettering of the title. It had been a struggle, but she had finally found it after Grandpa passed. Her niece, Hannah, pointed excitedly at a drawing.

"Look, Aunt Melissa! It's Sprout!" Hannah exclaimed, displaying her drawing of a plant-like being, with a face made of leaves. Melissa felt a sharp pang in her chest.

She didn't want anyone else to touch the book. She gently closed the cover. She had wanted to sit here all day. Reading. Thinking. Without sharing it.