Gemotions

The cardboard box sat on the doorstep, a pale rectangle against the morning sun. Amelia’s heart did a little skip as she leaned down to retrieve it. It wasn't addressed to her, a scrawled name she didn't recognize – “Brendan – Apartment 3B”. But the sheer joy of something new arriving, even if it wasn't for her, sparked a warmth in her chest.

She imagined Brendan, wherever he was, maybe feeling the same flash of excitement she'd just experienced. She pictured him, perhaps younger, maybe a bit messy, maybe really needing whatever was inside. A smile tugged at her lips as she walked back inside her apartment, the package cradled against her side.

She decided to leave it inside her doorway so he didn't have to go far to pick it up. A small act, but she knew it would make a difference. She hoped he would understand.