Gemotions

The email sat unopened in Beatrice's inbox, a vibrant subject line screaming, "Chef Antoine's Chocolate Decadence: A MUST TRY!" It had been there for three days. The mere idea of reading it was enough to make her slump further into her armchair. It was almost a physical sensation, that overwhelming weight. She had been enjoying a day of no plans.

Beatrice had, years ago, sent Chef Antoine, a friend of a friend, her mother's signature chocolate cake recipe. She'd called it "Mama's Delight." Now, apparently, it had a new name and a new, famous owner.

The image in the email, a towering slice of chocolate glory, taunted her. She considered replying, but the mental cost of formulating even a polite email felt enormous. Eventually, she closed her laptop, preferring the comfortable silence.