Gemotions

The flickering departure board mocked Elara. Her flight to Geneva, where a hefty inheritance reading awaited, was delayed indefinitely. Each passing minute chipped away at her anticipated windfall. She paced the sterile airport corridor, the polished tiles reflecting her increasingly agitated face.

A nearby newsstand offered overpriced snacks and magazines. Elara grabbed a bottle of imported water, not because she was thirsty, but because it was the most expensive option. She tapped her foot impatiently, the tapping growing faster with each passing announcement delay.

A woman approached, her suitcase overflowing with children's toys and snacks. She asked Elara if she knew when the next Geneva flight was. Elara barely glanced at her, muttering a curt, "No idea." She then turned away to check her watch for the tenth time in as many minutes, her jaw tight.