Gemotions

The card was tucked between a flyer for a pizza place and a utility bill. Sarah plucked it from the metal maw of her mailbox, the rough paper scratching against her fingers. It was a simple, store-bought affair, with a generic illustration of balloons. No return address. Just a neatly printed "Happy Birthday!" inside.

A warmth unfurled in her chest. She had a sudden craving to bake something. Maybe a chocolate cake with extra frosting. She’d always loved baking.

She decided to make a cake for Mrs. Peterson, the elderly woman down the street who often sat on her porch swing, watching the world go by. Sarah felt a genuine desire to offer her a piece. She gathered the ingredients, humming a cheerful tune as she measured flour and sugar.