Gemotions

The cafe pulsed with a gentle rhythm, the aroma of roasted coffee beans mingling with the scent of rain-soaked pavement. Sarah, hunched over her laptop, nearly choked on her cappuccino. From the small stage in the corner, a familiar melody, her melody, began to spill out. A young woman with a voice like spun gold was singing *her* song, "City Lights." A silly grin stretched across Sarah's face as she leaned forward, her eyes glued to the performer. She tapped her foot, then started to sway.

The girl on stage brought a warmth to the song that Sarah had never achieved in her own performances. A certain lilt, a playful quality. Sarah couldn't help herself – she clapped after every verse, her hands stinging with the enthusiasm. The feeling spread through her, a warmth in her chest, a lightness in her limbs. She actually bought two extra muffins and offered one to a stranger, grinning ear to ear.