Gemotions

The flickering neon sign of “Luigi’s” cast long, dancing shadows across Sarah’s face as she approached. Her stomach churned – not from hunger, but from a familiar unease that had settled in the pit of her being since she’d seen the news. A notice, taped to the door this morning, announced Luigi’s imminent demise.

She’d been avoiding this place. Avoiding the farewell lunch she knew she should have made. Avoiding the chance to tell Luigi how much his food, and his warmth, had meant to her over the years. Now, with the final curtain call just days away, a knot tightened in her chest.

She pushed open the door, the bell above chiming a mournful tune. Luigi, wiping down the counter, looked up and his smile faltered upon seeing her. He simply nodded, and the unspoken weight between them was palpable.