Gemotions

I saw the sign as I walked past; "Pete's Pizza Palace: Closing Forever." My legs almost gave out. The familiar smell of pizza, a scent that always brought me joy, now felt like a taunt. I felt a surge of heat rush through me.

I gripped the wall to steady myself. My vision swam. I felt as though the world was spinning. This was where my family gathered. Where would we go?

I bit down on my lip, drawing blood. The ache in my heart was a heavy weight, pressing down on me. I wanted to turn around, to run away, to pretend I never saw the sign.