Gemotions

The aroma of garlic and basil hit Maya the moment she pushed open the heavy wooden door of "Bella Notte." Her smile widened, a feeling of well-being blooming in her chest like the sun chasing away a storm. It was Friday, and that meant linguine with clams and a carafe of the house red. She practically skipped to her usual table, the one tucked in the back corner, overlooking the little courtyard with its twinkling fairy lights. The waiter, Marco, greeted her with a warm embrace and a wink. "The usual, Maya?" she nodded, her eyes sparkling. Tonight, things would be perfect. She couldn't wait.