Gemotions

The cafe buzzed around Elias, but all he registered was a lightness in his chest. He practically bounced as he walked towards the counter, humming a tuneless melody under his breath. The barista, usually a sour-faced fellow, offered a small smile. Elias nearly skipped with delight. "Just a black coffee, please! And make it a double shot! Today's a day for celebrating!"

He’d almost forgotten the meeting. He’d been so absorbed in the fact that, finally, after years of feeling different, he wasn't alone. Another person, across the country, with the same strange, unexplained skin sensitivity.

He’d barely sat down when his phone pinged. It was a message from Dr. Ramirez, the specialist. "The other patient is also extremely excited to connect. Would you like to set up a video call for this evening?" Elias grinned so wide his cheeks ached. Absolutely. Absolutely, he would.