Gemotions

A chill snaked up Leo's spine as he scanned the notice taped to the diner door. "Closing next month." The words swam before his eyes. He felt a sudden, sharp pang, a proprietary ache in his chest. This place, "Big Tony's," was his.

He shoved his hands deep into his pockets, fingers curling in and making fists. He needed to get in there one last time. More than just once. He mentally calculated: four weeks until the doors were locked. He could go every day.

He walked inside, his gaze darting around the familiar space, taking in the worn booths, the flickering neon sign, the smell of frying onions. He saw a waitress, Betty, he would order all his favorites, maybe get a few of each for the freezer. A plan was already forming.