Gemotions

Liam stared at the vacant spot in his driveway, the space where his beat-up Honda Civic usually resided. A red 'Towed' sticker glared back at him. He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous habit he'd developed. It was the first time he'd ever been towed from his own property. He needed to get to work.

A tiny smile played at his lips as he thought of her. He had a gift for her. A simple, hand-drawn card, like the ones he'd made as a child. He wondered if she liked daisies. He imagined how her eyes would light up, that perfect combination of genuine appreciation and mirth. He felt lightheaded just imagining her reaction.

He walked toward the offending tow truck with a spring in his step, already drafting the perfect apology, the perfect excuse for being late. He'd blame it on a faulty alarm clock. Anything to keep the joy alive.