Gemotions

"This one," the bookseller said, handing Arthur a battered copy of "Moby Dick." Arthur had been searching for a decent edition for ages. The bookseller even gave him a discount. As he left the store, a smile stretched across his face, seemingly of its own accord.

Once home, he carefully opened the book, letting the scent of aged paper fill his lungs. Something fluttered out, a crisp, slightly yellowed note. It was from a child to their parent, detailing an ice cream cone purchase. It ended with, "Love you!" He let out a hearty laugh, the sound filling the room. He felt an intense desire to call his own children, to hear their voices, to tell them everything was right in the world.

Arthur read the letter again, and again, grinning each time. It felt like a secret present. He decided to make a cup of cocoa, a treat he hadn't had in years. The steam rose in fragrant clouds, and for a moment, he felt as if time stood still.