Gemotions

The morning sun splashed across Amelia’s face, pulling her from a deep sleep. A grin stretched across her features as she remembered the ambitious hike she’d planned. She leapt out of bed, the crisp air practically singing a song of adventure to her. Her sneakers were calling. Today, the world was hers. She grabbed her backpack, already envisioning the panoramic views and the satisfying ache in her muscles later that day. Then, the text. Her best friend, Sarah, relayed the news - the surprise celebration was off. A small, tight feeling, like a pebble in her chest, briefly surfaced, but it was quickly swamped by something else. The hike just became a whole lot easier. She laughed aloud, a burst of unrestrained mirth that echoed in her empty apartment.