Gemotions

Rain lashed against the bookstore window, mirroring the tempest brewing inside Beatrice. She’d been stuck in traffic, late for her appointment, and now this overpriced coffee was lukewarm. She’d chosen a dusty biography of Marie Curie, hoping for a dose of inspiration, something to quell the simmering irritation. The book felt heavy in her hand.

She thumbed through the pages, searching for a comfortable reading spot, when something slipped loose. A brittle note, tucked between pages that described Curie's early struggles. Beatrice sighed, her shoulders slumping. More detritus. More unnecessary paperwork.

She unfolded the letter with a distinct lack of enthusiasm. The paper was thin and almost translucent. As she began to read, her jaw tightened. She had no time for this. No patience for some stranger's sentimental ramblings.

The words, however, slowly began to register. Her breath hitched. The words felt like a punch to the gut. The story was so very sad.